macular degeneration

noun

: progressive deterioration of the macula resulting in a gradual loss of the central part of the visual field

especially : age-related macular degeneration

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web

Some researchers are seeking to combat macular degeneration, a common cause of blindness, by reprogramming cells in the eye to support light-sensitive retinal cells. —Philip Ball, Scientific American, 18 Apr. 2023

Like many in her age range, Sylvia McGregor, a 97-year-old in Sydney, Australia, deals with her share of maladies — in her case, arthritis, osteoporosis, hearing loss, macular degeneration, lung disease, hypothyroidism, chronic kidney disease, heart disease and two total knee replacements. —Lola Butcher, Discover Magazine, 2 Jan. 2023

The agency has specifically warned against claims that stem cells can be used to treat autism, macular degeneration, blindness, chronic pain, fatigue; neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s; or cardiovascular or pulmonary diseases. —Los Angeles Times, 17 May 2022

The genetic technique that Dr. Riggs and Itakura developed, using recombinant DNA, is also technological foundation of monoclonal antibodies, a therapy widely used in treating cancer, autoimmune disorders, macular degeneration, covid-19 and other disorders. —Washington Post, 31 Mar. 2022

Over 10 million older Americans suffer from macular degeneration, in which the retina's central macula gradually breaks down. —Discover Magazine, 5 Nov. 2010

Researchers found that vegetables fried in extra virgin olive oil improved their antioxidant capacity.27 That process also increased the number of phenolic compounds, which may help prevent cancer, diabetes, or macular degeneration. —Jenn Sinrich, Health, 7 Mar. 2023

Purple sweet potatoes have been linked to prevention or delay in the development of cataracts and macular degeneration. —Women's Health, 22 Feb. 2023

Other studies currently in the works are looking at conditions as varied as Alzheimer’s, osteoporosis and macular degeneration, as well as examining survivors of childhood cancer, who carry large loads of senescent cells as a result of chemotherapy treatments. —Nathaniel Scharping, Discover Magazine, 11 Aug. 2020

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Word History

First Known Use

1902, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

macular degeneration

noun

: progressive deterioration of the macula of the eye resulting in a gradual loss of the central part of the visual field

especially : age-related macular degeneration