Macular Pigment Density and Vision Related Quality of Life: Demographics
Abstract
Macular pigment (MP) is a distinctive yellow region in the human retina that protects the photoreceptors from blue light. A robust literature shows that vision and visual performance my benefit from increased levels of MP thereby increasing the optical density to blue light. The literature also reports huge individual differences in MPOD, explained at least in part by dietary preferences since the MP is comprised of carotenoids derived from nutrition. Thus, many people with low MPOD can improve their vision by increasing their MPOD with the increased consumption of dietary carotenoids, for example by eating more leafy greens or taking dietary supplements. The purpose of the present study is to assess the distribution statistics of MPOD in samples of military and civilian volunteers in the local area around Fort Rucker, AL to determine whether there is room for improvement in the MPOD as compared to values reported in the literature. The MPOD was measured in samples of 32 military pilots, 60 non-pilot military, and 59civilians, along with demographic, dietary, and eye health questionnaires.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 03, 2019
- Accession Number
- AD1083473
Entities
People
- Amanda Hayes
- Kevin W O'Brien
- Leonard Temme
- Paul St. Onge
- Raquel Goosey
Organizations
- United States Army Aeromedical Research Lab