Smoking increases risk of Age-Related Macular Degeneration

New research suggests that cigarette smokers are much more likely than non-smokers to go blind late in life. Researchers in the United Kingdom have concluded that smoking led to a two-to-threefold increase in the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration.

Age-related macular degeneration, a condition that blurs the sharp central vision (which we use for skills like reading,driving, and other activities requiring fine, sharp or straight-ahead vision), is the most common cause of legal blindness in those over age 55. Nearly one out of three people over the age of 75 are affected by the condition. There are approximately 10 million people in the United States affected with age-related macular degeneration, and about 200,000 new cases are diagnosed each year in the United States.

Simon P. Kelly, opthalmic surgeon and study-co-researcher told WebMD: "The studies confirmed that smokers were significantly more likely to develop age related macular degeneration than nonsmokers and that heavy smokers had the highest risk."

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with age related macular degeneration, and needs help learning how to live an independent life, please contact Independence for the Blind of West Florida.