Macular pigment optical density in a Thai sample

Background: The aim of this study was to determine macular pigment optical density (MPOD) and identify factors that correlate with its level in Thai subjects. Research design and methods: This research was a cross-sectional study. Two hundred and forty eyes of 120 participants with healthy eyes underwent MPOD measurement using VISUCAM 500. Demographic and medical data were collected. Pearson's correlation coefficient analyzed the relationship between the sum of optical densities (MPOD volume) and various factors. MPOD and its influencing factors were analyzed by stepwise multiple regression. Results: The mean age of the participants was 50.7 +/- 7.5 years. The mean MPOD was 0.102 +/- 0.023 density units. The factors age (r = 0.261, p < 0.01), female gender (r = 0.191, p < 0.05), and consumption of lutein and zeaxanthin (L/Z) supplement (r = 0.168, p < 0.05) were positively associated with MPOD volume. In contrast, normal blood pressure (r = - 0.182, p < 0.05) was negatively associated with MPOD volume. No relationship with smoking, body mass index, lipid profile, and family history of AMD on MPOD values was observed in this study. Conclusions: Age, gender and consumption of L/Z supplement were found to be significant predictors of MPOD in Thai subjects.