(March 30, 2009 - Insidermedicine) Playing high action video games may improve a key aspect of vision known as contrast sensitivity, according to research published in the latest issue of Nature Neuroscience.

Here is some information on contrast sensitivity:

•    It refers to the ability to discern slight differences in shades of grey.

•    Contrast sensitivity is a key component of overall visual acuity.

•    Until recently, it was believed that contrast sensitivity could only be improved through use of corrective lenses or eye surgery.

Researchers out of the University of Rochester recruited 22 students to play video games for 50 hours over a course of nine weeks. Half the students played the high action games "Unreal Tournament 2004" and "Call of Duty 2." The other half played "The Sims 2," which is a richly vis ual game but does not require the same level of visual-motor coordination.

After nine weeks, vision testing revealed that those who played the high action games experienced an average of a 43% improvement in their contrast sensitivity. Those who played The Sims 2 had no discernable change in their vision.

We had a chance to speak with Dr. Walter Makous, one of the authors of this study, who offered some further insight. 
          
Today’s research is the first to demonstrate that vision can actually be improved with training. It also highlights the potential of using video games to improve vision problems, possibly in combination with more conventional treatments like glasses and surgery.

For Insidermedicine InDepth, I'm Dr. Susan Sharma.