Evaluation of risk factors for retinal nerve fiber layer thinning in the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging

Project Summary

As we age, our bodies undergo various changes, including those in our eyes. One critical change is the loss of neurons in the retina, the tissue at the back of the eye responsible for vision. This loss, caused by factors like natural aging, oxidative stress, and exposure to light, can lead to reduced vision quality and increase the risk of conditions like macular degeneration and glaucoma. Recent research also suggests a connection between retinal neuron loss and diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Understanding the factors influencing neural loss in the aging retina is crucial for preserving vision and overall health. Current studies lack comprehensive data on how age and other factors affect neural loss rates. Leveraging artificial intelligence, we aim to predict and track neural loss using retinal images from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA). We hope to advance our understanding of age-related vision decline and inform strategies for prevention and treatment.