The Test That Could Reveal More About Your Future Eye Health Than You Think

At Envision Eye Care, we offer advanced testing that can reveal important information about your overall eye health - sometimes even before symptoms begin. One of the most powerful tools we use is the MPOD test (Macular Pigment Optical Density). This simple, non-invasive test can help us identify patients who may be at higher risk for serious eye diseases, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
 

What Is MPOD?

MPOD stands for Macular Pigment Optical Density. This test measures the density of the protective pigments (lutein and zeaxanthin) in the macula, the central part of your retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. These pigments act as a natural shield, filtering out harmful blue light and protecting your photoreceptors from oxidative stress.
 

Why Is MPOD Important?

Your MPOD score reflects how well your macula is protected from daily exposure to harmful blue light, which comes from sunlight, digital screens, LED lighting, and more. The more pigment you have, the better your eyes are protected. A low MPOD score means your eyes are less protected - leaving you at higher risk for damage and, ultimately, diseases like AMD.

According to research, about 78% of the population falls into the low-to-average range for MPOD, meaning the majority of people may have less than optimal protection from blue light and oxidative damage. Only about 22% of people have optimal pigment density, giving them the best chance to protect their central vision long-term.
 

MPOD and AMD

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of severe vision loss in people over 50. It occurs when the cells in the macula deteriorate, causing blurred or missing areas in your central vision. Because the macular pigment acts as an internal pair of sunglasses, filtering blue light before it reaches sensitive cells, people with low MPOD are at higher risk for AMD.

An MPOD test helps identify patients who may be at increased risk even before symptoms appear. This makes it possible to start early lifestyle or nutritional interventions, such as increasing lutein and zeaxanthin intake through diet or supplements, which can help protect vision and lower the risk of developing AMD.
 

What to Expect During a MPOD Test

The MPOD test is quick, painless, and non-invasive. It involves looking into a specialized device and following simple instructions while the instrument measures how much blue light is absorbed by your macular pigment. Your results are available immediately, and your eye doctor can explain what your score means and what steps you can take to improve or maintain your eye health.
 

Take Charge of Your Eye Health at Envision Eye Care

Your eye health is about more than just seeing clearly; it’s about protecting your vision for the future. MPOD testing offers a unique window into your eye’s natural defenses and helps identify those at high risk for serious conditions like AMD. At Envision Eye Care, we’re committed to using the latest technology to keep your eyes healthy and your vision strong.

Schedule your MPOD test with Envision Eye Care and find out if are at high risk for AMD. Call our Virginia offices in Marion at (276) 262-6546, Cedar Bluff at (276) 262-6668, or Abingdon at (276) 566-5478. For our Tennessee offices, call Bristol at (423) 427-2917 or Gray at (423) 264-2544 to book your appointment today.