UPDATE Macular Degeneration
Spring 2026
IN THIS ISSUE
Direct to Consumer (DTC) vs Healthcare
Research Update: Advancements in the
Treatment of Geographic Atrophy
Late-Stage Clinical Trials in 2026
Chairman’s Corner
Seeing Stars
More Than Vision Loss: Anxiety and Depression
in Macular Degeneration
Simple Dietary Habits That May Support
Long-Term Vision
Diabetes Treatments That Will
Also Benefit AMD
Two Important Advances in
Dry Eye Treatment
Preserve & Protect Your Vision–
Donate Today
Direct to Consumer (DTC) VS Healthcare
In recent years, eyecare has joined the growing list of healthcare categories being reshaped by direct-to-consumer (DTC) marketing. From social media ads, to television commercials, to subscription-based delivery models, companies are increasingly promoting prescription products directly to consumers.
These campaigns can be appealing, especially in a digital-first world where people are accustomed to managing many aspects of their lives online. However, when it comes to something as important as vision, convenience should not come at the expense of quality care.
Eyecare providers offer a level of personalized care that no algorithm or online questionnaire can fully replicate. During an in-person exam, optometrists and ophthalmologists assess not only visual acuity but also eye coordination, ocular health, and risk factors for conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic eye disease.
They also ensure that prescriptions are accurate and tailored to a patient’s specific needs, lifestyle, and long-term health. This level of clinical oversight is essential for achieving optimal outcomes and maintaining eye health over time.
An issue arises when DTC campaigns blur the lines between retail and healthcare, leading consumers to believe that any prescription product is a standalone solution. There are currently between 7 and 10 prescription eyecare products being marketed to consumers. It can often be confusing to even know what a product is used for or if it is even relevant to you Ultimately, the best way to receive eyecare is through a trusted eyecare professional who can provide comprehensive, individualized attention. While direct-to-consumer ads may seem attractive, they should never replace the expertise and oversight of a licensed provider. Protecting your vision requires a commitment to long-term health that only a dedicated eyecare professional can deliver.
By: Jeffry D. Gerson, O.D., F.A.A.O.
Medical Director, Macular Degeneration Association
Dr. Jeffry D. Gerson is a recognized authority in optometry and serves as the Medical Director of the Macular Degeneration Association.
Research Update:
ADVANCEMENTS IN THE TREATMENT OF GEOGRAPHIC ATROPHY
By: Jeremiah Brown, MS, MD
Recent research supported by the Macular Degeneration Association highlights promising developments in the treatment of geographic atrophy, the advanced form of dry macular degeneration. Clinical trials—including The Derby & Oaks, GATHER 1, and GATHER 2—have demonstrated that inhibiting the inflammatory cascade driven by complement proteins in the retina can slow disease progression.
In clinical practice, physicians have observed an unexpected and encouraging trend: in addition to slowing progression, some patients report improvements in the quality of their vision. To better understand how frequently this occurs, a retrospective study was conducted across eight large retina practices.
The study reviewed patient data from March 2023 through August 2025 and included 1,821 patients treated with Syfovre and 819 patients treated with Izervay. Among patients receiving Syfovre, 20% experienced a one-line improvement in visual acuity after their first injection, and 13% showed improvement after two injections. Similarly, 17% of patients treated with Izervay demonstrated a one-line or greater improvement after the first injection, with 12% continuing to show improvement across two consecutive visits. These findings suggest that, beyond slowing disease progression, these treatments may also offer measurable visual improvement for some patients. Ongoing studies aim to better identify which patients are most likely to benefit and to understand the mechanisms behind these improvements.
LATE-STAGE CLINICAL TRIALS IN 2026
By: David A. Eichenbaum, MD FASRS
2026 is an exciting year for pipeline development in retina. There are two types of durable late-stage therapies which have either fully enrolled or are currently enrolling their pivotal clinical trials. These technologies may offer a substantial reduction in treatment burden to patients with common retinal disease. The first therapeutic class which is currently in Phase 3 development for wet macular degeneration and diabetic retinal swelling is the tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI’s). There are two in late-stage development: axitinib (Axpaxli) and vorolonob (Duravyu), which are both polymers designed to release drug inside the eye over several months. These injections work differently than the biologics such as bevacizumab (Avastin), aflibercept (Eylea and Eylea HD) and faricimab (Vabysmo), which have been the backbone of treatment for a generation. TKI’s work inside the cells of the retina to reduce the negative effects of pathologic proteins, whereas the biologics have worked outside the cells to block the pathologic proteins. If the TKI’s are shown to be safe and effective, they may be used with the currently available biologics to significantly extend the interval between injections. The second class of therapy in Phase 3 development for wet macular degeneration is gene therapy. This class of therapy is delivered either in the operating room or as an injection in the doctor’s office. The gene therapies work by using a specially selected viral vector to change the cells of the retina to produce a therapy like the biologics that are currently available as injections. The principle is that the eye becomes its own medicine factory, making its therapy without as many extra injections. There are three in late- stage development: Sura-vec, which is injected in the operating room, and Ixo-vec and 4D-150, which are injected in the doctor’s office. It is not clear which delivery method or which vector would be the safest and most effective, but our data to date supports further development of all 3 of these. Gene therapy may substantially reduce the frequency of additional injections in the eye and may also be used with currently available biologics as well as the TKI’s.
Clinical scientists and pharmaceutical partners are working hard to produce safe, effective, and less burdensome treatments for our patients.
Stay tuned to the Macular Degeneration Association to hear more about these exciting pivotal programs as results are released in 2026 and 2027.
About: David A. Eichenbaum, MD, FASRS — Dr Eichenbaum is a distinguished member of the Macular Degeneration Association’s Medical Advisory Board. Dr. Eichenbaum serves as Director of Research for Retina Vitreous Associates and has been Principal Investigator in over 70 early- to late-stage clinical trials studying common retinal diseases such as dry and wet macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease, and retinal vascular disease. Dr. Eichenbaum has published over 50 articles in professional journals and authored multiple textbook chapters and continues to passionately contribute to the current retinal literature. Dr. Eichenbaum presents data internationally and is a regular abstract presenter at the American Society of Retinal Specialists, American Academy of Ophthalmology, the Association of Research and Vision in Ophthalmology, and at the prestigious invitational Retina Society meeting. He serves on numerous Clinical and Scientific Advisory Boards and National Steering Committees for clinical research. Under Dr. Eichenbaum’s direction, Retina Vitreous Associates of Florida has been recognized nationally as a cutting-edge research site for the advancement of the retinal specialty.
Chairman’s Corner:
Dear Friends,
As we embrace the arrival of spring, I’d like to take a moment to reconnect with you through our quarterly newsletter, where you’ll find the latest updates on treatments, technology, and research. This year has already shown tremendous promise, with several new research projects underway in just the past few months. Please explore the latest information shared about a significant research project funded by the Macular Degeneration Association.
We are excited to roll out new programs designed to support you. This April, we’ll host two events in Florida – on April 11 in The Villages and on April 25 in Pensacola, which is a new location for our programming.
In the months ahead, additional programs are planned across the country including:
Colorado Springs, CO – August 8,
Great Falls, MT – August 15,
Phoenix, AZ – August 22
Saint Louis, MO – August 29,
Albuquerque, NM – September 12,
Schaumburg, IL – September 19,
Nashua, NH – October 3, and
Asheville, NC – October 10
We hope to see you at least one of these programs, where people come together to learn, connect, and support one another. Throughout the summer, six virtual programs will also be offered to ensure that everyone can access support and education regardless of location. For the most up-to-date information, please visit https://MacularHope.org/programs/.
Living with age-related macular degeneration, geographic atrophy, and diabetic eye disease can be challenging. To better support you, we’ve introduced a new section on our website featuring our educational brochures that you can easily view and download for personal use. These resources are available at https://MacularHope.org/resources/.
Above all, please remember that you are not alone in this journey. Our commitment is to walk alongside you, providing knowledge, compassion, and hope every step of the way. Thank you for your continued support of the Macular Degeneration Association – together, we can make a meaningful difference.
Sincerely,
Lawrence S. Hoffheimer
Macular Degeneration Association
Chairman
Seeing Stars
The Macular Degeneration Association proudly supports the film “Seeing Stars,” which raises awareness about Stargardt’s Disease, the juvenile form of macular degeneration. The creative team is busy preparing for this summer’s shoot. We are excited that Ellen recently received an invitation from Abigail Disney’s organization, Level Forward, which backs films with social impact.
I wanted to share her heartfelt response to the question, “Is there anything else you would like to share about this project?” Ellen Gould, an Emmy Award-winning writer and performer, said:
“I have been developing SEEING STARS for over twenty years. As someone who has been legally blind since adolescence but with enough vision to hide it, I wanted to tell this story, though I feared it might limit my career. Over the years, I met remarkable women with Stargardt’s and listened to their inspiring stories.
The journey to finalize the script has been incredible, and filming is scheduled for summer 2026.
One young girl, Serafina, who is 11 and legally blind, stood out to me. After a panel I led at a Stargardt conference, she hugged me and said, “Thank you for your stories. Maybe I can do it, too.” There is nothing that will stop me from making this film for her.”
MORE THAN VISION LOSS: Anxiety and Depression in Macular Degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a chronic, progressive eye disease that affects central vision, and its impact extends far beyond visual function. From a clinical perspective, vision loss—particularly when it interferes with reading, driving, and recognizing faces—can significantly disrupt independence and quality of life. These functional limitations often trigger emotional responses, including worry about disease progression and fear of further loss of vision or blindness. As a result, patients frequently experience distress, particularly in the form of anxiety and depressive symptoms.
A substantial body of science demonstrates that mental health conditions are common among individuals with AMD. A systematic review of observational studies found that depressive symptoms occur in approximately 15.7% to 44% of patients, while anxiety symptoms range from 9.6% to 30.1%1. In some clinical populations, the burden may be even higher; for example, one study reported that 26.9% of patients with neovascular AMD experienced depression and 25.5% experienced anxiety2. These rates exceed those typically observed in age-matched populations without vision impairment, underscoring the strong association between visual decline and mental health vulnerability.
The mechanisms underlying this relationship are multifactorial. Vision loss reduces a person’s ability to engage in previously routine activities, often leading to social withdrawal, reduced physical activity, and loss of autonomy. Over time, these changes can foster feelings of helplessness and isolation—key drivers of depression. Anxiety, on the other hand, is often linked to uncertainty about disease progression, fear of falls or injury (which are more common in people with AMD), and concerns about maintaining independence. Importantly, research shows that worsening visual acuity is correlated with increasing depressive symptoms, suggesting that psychological burden intensifies as the disease advances3.
From a clinical care standpoint, recognizing and addressing mental health is essential in the management of AMD. Patients benefit from a multidisciplinary approach that includes routine screening for depression and anxiety, referral to mental health professionals when appropriate, and supportive interventions such as low-vision rehabilitation and social support programs. Early identification of psychological distress can improve adherence to treatment, enhance coping strategies, and ultimately preserve overall quality of life. In this way, treating AMD effectively requires not only preserving vision where possible, but also proactively supporting emotional well-being.
By Jeffry Gerson, OD, FAAO, Medical
Director, Macular Degeneration Association
1Dawson SR, et al. The prevalence of anxiety and depression in people with age-related macular degeneration: a systematic review of observational study data. BMC Ophthalmol. 2014.
2Fernández-Vigo JI, et al. Assessment of vision-related quality of life and depression and anxiety rates in patients with Neovascular AMD. Arch Soc Esp Oftalmol (Engl Ed). 2021 Sep.
3Augustin A, et al. Anxiety and depression prevalence rates in age-related macular degeneration. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2007 Apr;48(4):1498-503.
Simple Dietary Habits That May Support Long-Term Vision
By: Julie Poteet, OD, MS, CNS, FOWNS
For individuals living with or at risk for age-related macular degeneration (AMD), nutrition represents one of the most important modifiable lifestyle factors influencing retinal health. The macula operates under constant metabolic demand and is exposed to high levels of light and oxygen, making it particularly susceptible to oxidative stress and inflammation. Over time, these processes can contribute to damage within the retinal pigment epithelium and photoreceptors. While genetics and aging remain major drivers of disease, growing evidence suggests that dietary habits may help influence the biological environment in which macular degeneration develops and progresses. One of the most consistent findings in AMD research involves dietary carotenoids, particularly lutein and zeaxanthin. These nutrients accumulate in the macula to form the macular pigment, where they function as antioxidants and help filter high-energy blue light before it reaches sensitive retinal tissues. Foods rich in these carotenoids include dark leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and collard greens, as well as eggs and certain brightly colored vegetables. Higher dietary intake of lutein and zeaxanthin has been associated with greater macular pigment density, which may help support retinal resilience. Fish consumption is another dietary habit associated with improved retinal health. Fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, anchovies, sardines, herring, and trout provide long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, including DHA and EPA, which are important components of retinal cell membranes and may help regulate inflammatory signaling in the retina. Observational studies—including analyses from the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) cohort—have reported that individuals who consume fatty fish at least twice per week may have a much lower risk of progression to advanced AMD. These findings highlight the importance of dietary patterns rather than reliance on single nutrients alone.
More broadly, research continues to support the benefits of a Mediterranean-style dietary pattern for individuals concerned about macular degeneration. This pattern emphasizes vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, olive oil, and regular fish intake while limiting highly processed foods. Such diets provide a wide range of bioactive compounds—including antioxidants, polyphenols, carotenoids, and B vitamins—that support vascular health, metabolic balance, and cellular energy production within the retina. While nutrition cannot prevent or cure macular degeneration, these simple dietary habits may help support the long-term health and resilience of the macula.
About Dr. Poteet: Dr. Poteet is a member of the Medical Advisory Board for the Macular Degeneration Association
(MDA). She graduated from The New England College of Optometry and completed her residency in primary care and eye diseases at the VA Medical System in Boston. Afterward, she obtained a Master’s of Science in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine and became a Certified Nutrition Specialist in 2015. This certification is one of the toughest for doctors, and fewer than 15 optometrists in the U.S. have it. Dr. Poteet was the Vice President of the Ocular Wellness & Nutrition Society (OWNS) for six years under her mentor, Dr. Stuart Richer, and she served as President for three years. She has written and spoken a lot about the microbiome, immune system issues, macular degeneration, nutrition, healthy aging for eyes, and how nutrition can help manage eye diseases. Dr. Poteet practices in Atlanta, GA. She is dedicated to continuing the work of her mentor, Dr. Stuart Richer, who emphasized the importance of using lifestyle and nutrition to prevent disease with his saying, “repair the roof before it starts raining.”
This article has been composed exclusively for the Macular Degeneration Association (MDA). Permission must be obtained prior to any reproduction of this content.
Diabetes Treatments That Will Also Benefit AMD
By: Paul Chous, MA, OD, FAAO — Specializing in Diabetes Eye Care & Education — Tacoma, WA
There is considerable overlap in the biology of both diabetes/diabetic retinopathy and AMD. Both have been linked to inflammation in the eye’s light-sensitive retina, both are more likely to occur with higher consumption of processed foods and refined carbohydrates, and the risk of both is reduced by healthy lifestyle choices (non-smoking, regular exercise and a Mediterranean-type diet.) Additionally, some drug therapies for diabetes have been linked to a lower risk of advanced AMD (metformin, for example, reduces blood sugar partly by changing our gut microbiome in ways that reduces retinal inflammation in both diabetic retinopathy and AMD — favoring ‘healthier’ gut bacteria that appear to be protective against eye disease — see Oral Metformin Inhibits Choroidal Neovascularization by Modulating the Gut-Retina Axis at https://iovs.arvojournals.org/article.aspx?articleid=2793114.
Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices are definitively linked to better blood sugar control and less severe diabetic retinopathy in patients living with diabetes, and may also be helpful for those with AMD. One of the least discussed findings from the original Age Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) is that patients with intermediate AMD were significantly less likely to experience advanced (‘wet’ AMD) if they ate a diet less likely to cause post-meal spikes in their blood sugar levels (a lower dietary glycemic index). In fact, those eating a lower glycemic index diet (minimal refined carbs, avoidance of fruit juice but lots of whole fruits and vegetables, cold water fatty fish, extra virgin olive oil and tree nuts) were roughly half as likely to progress from intermediate (dry) AMD to advanced (wet) AMD compared to those eating a high glycemic index diet.
CGM allows us to see our blood sugar levels in real-time (with measurements every 5 minutes) and teaches those wearing them what specific foods and combinations make blood sugar levels spike within 2-hours of consumption. As a good rule of thumb, foods that elevate blood sugar above 150 mg/dl in the first two hours of eating should be minimized. CGM can be prescribed for those with diabetes who take insulin, but can also be purchased over-the-counter by anyone without a prescription.
About Dr. Chous, MA, OD, FAAO, CDE: Dr. A. Paul
Chous is an optometrist who runs a private practice in Tacoma, WA, with a focus on diabetes eye care and education. He has attended prestigious institutions, including Brown University, UC Irvine, and UC Berkeley. Dr. Chous is an accomplished writer and speaker on topics related to diabetes, nutrition, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD), both in the United States and internationally. Additionally, he serves on the medical advisory board of the Macular Degeneration Association.
Two Important Advances in Dry Eye Treatment: Next-Generation IPL Without Cooling
By: Mile Brujic, OD, FAAO
Dry eye disease can significantly affect comfort, vision, and quality of life. While many treatments have been available for years, two recent advancements are expanding how we manage this condition: Lacrifill and a newer form of intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy that does not require cooling.
Lacrifill: A Gel Alternative to Traditional Plugs
Lacrifill is a hyaluronic acid gel placed into the tear drainage openings (puncta). Like traditional punctal plugs, it helps keep your natural tears on the surface of the eye longer by reducing drainage.
What makes Lacrifill different is that it is not a solid plug. Instead, it is a soft, biocompatible gel that conforms to the tear drainage system. It is made from hyaluronic acid which is a common ingredient in artificial tears, making it also provide a mild lubricating effect over time as small amounts gradually dissolve. This combination of tear retention and added hydration makes Lacrifill a promising option for certain dry eye patients. Next-Generation IPL Without Cooling Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy is often used to treat dry eye related to inflammation and meibomian gland dysfunction. Traditional IPL systems require cooling during treatment.
Newer IPL technology uses shorter pulses that eliminate the need for cooling. Without cooling the skin, blood vessels remain more dilated during treatment, which may enhance the effectiveness of the light therapy while maintaining patient comfort.
More Personalized Care
Dry eye is a complex condition, and no single treatment works for everyone. Advances like Lacrifill and next-generation IPL allow eye care providers to offer more personalized solutions. If you are experiencing dry eye symptoms, speak with your eye care professional about whether these newer options may be appropriate for you.
About: Dr. Brujic is a highly respected and esteemed member of the Macular Degeneration Association’s Medical Board, where he plays an active role in advancing education on this important eye health. As a sought- after speaker, he shares his expertise at conferences and events, providing valuable insights into the latest developments in the field of macular degeneration, dry eye disease and much more.
HOW TO GIVE
Phone, Mail or Online
Phone: Please call (941)893-4387 today to speak to one of our Donor Services Representatives.
Mail: Send your check or money order today payable to:
MACULAR DEGENERATION ASSOCIATION
5969 Cattleridge Boulevard, Suite 100 | Sarasota, FL 34232
Online: Please visit www.macularhope.org today and click on the Donation tab.
Stocks, Securities, Mutual Funds and IRAs
Please give serious consideration to the donation of stock and mutual fund shares as this offers numerous opportunities
to make a most gracious gift and receive tax advantages.
Wills, Bequests and Planned Gifts
Please give serious consideration to the designation of MDA in your Will, Charitable Trusts, Life Insurance, Appreciated
Securities and Real Estate as this offers preplanned giving opportunities that will serve the macular community for
years to come. Please call Lynne Henry (941)893-4389 at the Macular Degeneration Association, today, for personal
assistance in initiating this effort.
The following language has been reviewed and is deemed a legally acceptable form for including such a bequest in a will:
“I give and bequeath to the Macular Degeneration Association, 5969 Cattleridge Blvd. Suite # 100 Sarasota, FL 34232
for discretionary use in carrying out its aims and purposes, (the sum of $_____) or ( a sum equal to _______% of
the value of my gross estate at the time of my death under this will or any codicil hereto).”
The Macular Degeneration Association Federal ID number is 27-3025707
MEMORIAL AND HONOR GIVING
Honor a family member, friend or special event by donating to MDA. Pay tribute to someone you love whose life
has been impacted by macular degeneration. In lieu of flowers, please consider designating Macular Degeneration
Association as your charity of choice.
WORKPLACE GIVING
Launch a Giving Campaign
Please consider leading a team at work by encouraging your colleagues and staff to join together to help those
living with macular degeneration. Launch a workplace giving campaign today.
Ask about Matching Gifts
Many gracious employers double or even triple charitable donations made by individual employees. Some companies
will match gifts made by retirees and or their spouses. Contact your employer for matching gift eligibility
as this allows you to maximize your personal donation.
Thank you!