Geographic Atrophy Patient Focus Group Project
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Patient perspectives in geographic atrophy (GA): Exploratory qualitative research to understand the impact of GA in the UK for patients and their families
IRAS ID
227791
Contact name
Jill Carlton
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS FT
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 4 months, 2 days
Research summary
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the major cause of blindness for the elderly population in the developed world. In late stages the disease may progress to either geographic atrophy (GA) and/or neovascular AMD. This progressive degenerative disease causes loss of visual function, as it is irreversible and is usually bilateral, with half of patients developing GA in both eyes within seven years of the initial diagnosis. In the United Kingdom (UK), GA is estimated to account for 26% of legal blindness. The incidence of advanced AMD increases exponentially with age. In the UK, there are 276,000 individuals diagnosed with GA, and this number will rise further due to a growing ageing population. There are no approved therapeutic treatments for GA, however a number of drugs are in clinical trials. Management of the condition is through supportive care, such as referral to low vision clinics for assessment and supply of low vision equipment, notification to social services (in some situations) and/or rehabilitation. Individuals may be registered as severely sight impaired or partially sighted (where appropriate). Signposting to agencies, such as charities and support groups is recommended, however variable access to services is noted across populations within the UK.
This project aims to develop an understanding of the impact GA has upon the quality of life for both individuals, and their families.
REC name
North East - Tyne & Wear South Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
17/NE/0263
Date of REC Opinion
3 Aug 2017
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion