A descriptive study of lutein and zeaxanthin in optometric practice

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to describe the perceptions, recommendations, and educational or informational materials of licensed Wisconsin optometrists on lutein and zeaxanthin and eye health.MethodsA 20-item original survey with letter of consent was mailed to 300 randomly chosen licensed optometrists followed by a reminder postcard 11 days later. A reminder to complete the survey was published in the Wisconsin Optometric Association newsletter. A total of 127 (42.3%) returned surveys were usable. The survey variables were coded, and data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 11.5 for Windows (SPSS Inc., Chicago, Illinois).ResultsMost respondents felt moderately to very informed about the relationship between lutein and zeaxanthin and eye health. Most participants thought the information on lutein and zeaxanthin and eye health was adequate to make recommendations to patients. Most respondents recommended a lutein or zeaxanthin supplement, spinach or other foods rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, a zinc supplement, and a multi-vitamin/mineral supplement to patients with, or at risk of, age-related macular degeneration. About half of respondents who distributed educational or informational materials had materials on lutein and zeaxanthin.ConclusionsOptometrists felt informed about lutein and zeaxanthin and eye health and recommended spinach or antioxidant supplements for age-related macular degeneration.