New Genes Behind Myopia Discovered, Houston LASIK Surgeon Comments
Houston, Texas (PRWEB) August 01, 2013 -- Myopia is a visual impairment that is often called “nearsightedness” and affects many people worldwide, and patients living here in Houston, TX. Currently, there is no cure other than corrective surgery through corrective lenses, LASIK, PRK, or the implementation of an Implantable Contact Lens. Myopia occurs because the eyeball has more length than normal, causing images to focus in front of the retina instead of on it. This results in the ability to see objects up close, but poor vision of objects at a distance. A new study has found 24 genes that are linked to myopia, and could possibly lead to new, preventive treatments.
“Myopia is not a disease, but an extremely common condition,” says Mary Green, PhD, MD, Houston LASIK surgeon and owner of Eye Excellence. “We see many patients tired of dealing with their nearsightedness through glasses and contacts every day. For most patients, LASIK is an excellent option. LASIK is short for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusus and is a procedure that is able to actually change the shape of the cornea, effectively correcting the previous irregular corneal shape. But with research like this, where might be able to learn where exactly myopia comes from and why, which is very exciting!”
The study was conducted by the Consortium for Refraction and Myopia. Genetic and refractive error data was analyzed from 45,000 subjects from 32 studies. From the result, 24 new genes were found that lead to eye development, the structure of the eye, and brain and eye tissue signaling. Those carrying the gene had a risk ten times subjects not carrying one of the new found genes. It was also found that subjects living in urban areas had higher risk for developing myopia.
“Its just exciting to know what might cause myopia. Someday we might be able to correct myopia through gene studies, but until then, glasses, contacts, LASIK and other types of laser vision correction will still be the main treatment options for tackling myopia in Houston,” says Dr. Green.
If you would like more information on LASIK in Houston, contact Eye Excellence at (713) 791-9494 or visit: http://eyeexcellence.com
Address: Medical Center 624 Fannin, Suite 2105 Houston, TX 77030
*About Eye Excellence: Eye Excellence is committed to serving the Houston, TX area with excellence in eye care, LASIK, cataract surgery, continuing education, and the best technology. In keeping with the highest quality of patient care, the staff consists of licensed professionals, including ophthalmologists (M.D.s), therapeutic optometrists (O.D.s), ophthalmic technicians, and opticians. The doctors of Eye Excellence strive to combine cutting edge technology with old-fashion caring.
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Stacy Schiel, Stubenbordt Medical Marketing, +1 (682) 831-0900, [email protected]
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