Age-Related Macular Degeneration - What Increases Your Risk
The major risk factors for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) include:
- Older age. Age is the biggest risk factor for developing AMD. Less than 10% of people ages 43 to 54 have AMD. After age 75, more than 30% of people may have some form of it.2
- A family history of the disease. You are much more likely to get AMD if a close relative has it.
- Race. Whites appear to have a higher risk than blacks or Hispanics.
- Smoking. People who smoke are about twice as likely to develop AMD than nonsmokers. The risk appears to be higher for people who have been heavy smokers or who have smoked for a long time.2
- One eye with wet AMD. Nearly half of people with wet AMD in one eye get wet AMD in the other eye within 5 years.1
Other risk factors for developing AMD may include:2
Symptoms of Age-Related Macular Degeneration
In its early stages, age-related macular degeneration may not have symptoms and may be unrecognized until it progresses or affects both eyes. The first sign of macular degeneration is usually distortion of straight lines. This may progress to a gradual loss of central vision. Symptoms of macular degeneration include: Straight lines start to appear distorted, or the center of vision becomes distorted Dark, blurry areas or white out appears in the center of vision Diminished or changed...
Read the Symptoms of Age-Related Macular Degeneration article > >
- Deposits at the back of the eye called drusen. Eyes with large, soft drusen deposits are at a greater risk for developing abnormal blood vessels and wet AMD.
- A diet high in saturated fat and cholesterol.
- Low dietary intake of carotenoids, antioxidant vitamins, and zinc.
Genes may play an important role in your risk for AMD. Researchers have found certain genes that seem to be linked to AMD.
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
Age-Related Macular Degeneration Topics
On Eye Health
Today in Eye Health
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
©2005-2012 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.
WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. See additional information.