Testing treatments for age-related macular degeneration to improve NHS resources
Fight for Sight, with the support of EURETINA – the European Society of Retina Specialists, is funding a clinical trial
known as the TIGER study, comparing the effectiveness of two existing treatments for age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Researchers led by Professor Timothy Jackson at King’s College London are testing a surgical treatment for clear-sight-threatening blood clots (sub-macular haemorrhage) that people with ‘wet’ AMD can experience.
The researchers will compare the potential benefits and risks with the standard existing treatment of injections.
The aim of the study is to improve outcomes for those living with the condition and ensure NHS resources are used
most effectively.
Director of Fundraising and Engagement at Fight for Sight, Ikram Dahman, said:
“We are so pleased that with the kind support of EURETINA we are funding this important clinical trial. Due to an ageing population, the number of people living with sight loss from conditions like age-related macular degeneration is set to rise significantly, severely impacting people’s quality of life. That’s why funding research like the TIGER study is more important than ever. We look forward to seeing Professor Jackson’s results.”
About AMD
Age-related macular degeneration is the most common cause of severe sight loss in older adults. There are over 600,000 people in the UK with sight loss caused by the two types of macular degeneration and this number will more than double by 2050.
There are currently no treatments for dry macular degeneration which accounts for ninety percent of cases. While there are some treatments by injection for wet macular degeneration this condition continues to have a huge impact on people’s sight.