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Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects millions of people worldwide and is a leading cause of blindness globally. Macular degeneration primarily impacts the central part of the retina, known as the macula, which is vital for sharp, detailed vision necessary for activities such as reading, driving, and recognizing faces. There are two main types of AMD:

1. Dry AMD: This more common form is characterized by the thinning of the macula and the presence of drusen—tiny yellow deposits under the retina. It progresses slowly, leading to gradual vision loss.

2. Wet AMD: This less common but more severe form involves the growth of abnormal blood vessels under the retina. These vessels can leak fluid or blood, causing rapid and severe vision loss.

Who Is Most at Risk?

While everyone can develop macular degeneration, certain populations are at increased risk:

Older Adults: AMD prevalence increases significantly after age 55.
Smokers: Tobacco smoking introduces toxic compounds that can damage the macula and affect blood circulation in the eye.
Individuals with Excess Body Fat: Obesity (BMI ≥ 30) contributes to oxidative stress, inflammation, and high cholesterol, which can damage the macula.
Those with High Blood Pressure: Hypertension can damage and narrow blood vessels in the retina, leading to macular degeneration.
Individuals with High Cholesterol: Elevated cholesterol levels are linked to the development of drusen, a precursor to AMD.
Diabetics: Diabetes can lead to retinopathy and increases inflammation and oxidative stress, contributing to macular damage.
People of European Ancestry: White individuals have higher rates of AMD compared to African Americans, Hispanics, and Asian Americans.
Genetics: Family history and certain genetic mutations (e.g., complement factor H and ARMS2) increase AMD risk.

Prevention Strategies

Quit Smoking: Reducing or stopping smoking can significantly decrease the risk of developing AMD.
Vitamin and Mineral Supplements: Supplements containing vitamins C and E, zinc, and beta-carotene may help prevent or slow the progression of AMD.
Dietary Changes: Adopting a Mediterranean diet, which includes fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, olive oil, and fish, can reduce AMD risk.
Physical Activity: Engaging in at least three hours of moderate activity per week can help manage weight and reduce AMD risk.
Treating Co-occurring Conditions: Managing hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes can lower AMD risk.
Protecting Your Eyes: Wearing UV-B blocking sunglasses and blue-light filtering glasses can help protect the macula.
Healthy Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night, as both insufficient and excessive sleep can increase AMD risk.

Taking proactive steps to understand and reduce the risks of macular degeneration is essential for preserving your vision and maintaining a high quality of life. The most effective way to monitor and manage AMD is through a comprehensive eye examination. Schedule your appointment with one of our optometrists today to safeguard your eye health today!

Citations

1. Thomas CJ, Mirza RG, Gill MK. Age-related macular degeneration. Medical Clin North America. 2021;105(3):473-491. doi:10.1016/j.mcna.2021.01.003

2. Di Carlo E, Augustin AJ. Prevention of the onset of age-related macular degeneration. Journal of Clinical Medicine. 2021;10(15):3297. doi:10.3390/jcm10153297.

3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Prevalence of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

4. Velilla S, García-Medina JJ, García-Layana A, et al. Smoking and age-related macular degeneration: review and update. J Ophthalmol. 2013;2013:895147. doi:10.1155/2013/895147.

5. Zhang QY, Tie LJ, Wu SS, et al. Overweight, obesity, and risk of age-related macular degeneration. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2016;57(3):1276. doi:10.1167/iovs.15-18637

6. Xu X, Ritz B, Coleman A, et al. Hypertension, antihypertensive medications use and risk of age-related macular degeneration in California Teachers Cohort. J Hum Hypertens. 2020;34(8):568-576. doi:10.1038/s41371-019-0269-9

7. Chen X, Rong SS, Xu Q, et al. Diabetes mellitus and risk of age-related macular degeneration: a systematic review and metaanalysis. PLoS One. 2014;9(9):e108196. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0108196.