Macular Degeneration Risk Factors
Researchers have yet to discover the exact causes of macular degeneration. However, there are some common factors known to increase the macular degeneration risk.
Aging is the major factor that may put you at risk of developing age-related macular degeneration. Other risk factors include:
- Race – more whites than blacks develop AMD
- Smoking
- Gender – women are at greater risk than men
- Obesity
- Genetic predisposition – you are at higher risk if you immediate family members have AMD
Macular degeneration can also occur as a side effect in those who take toxic drugs for various conditions. Read more about specific drugs that may cause macular degeneration, unrelated to age.
Additional factors that may also contribute to developing macular degeneration are:
- Poor diet
- Lack of exercise
- Ultraviolet light exposure – It has been speculated that those with a lighter eye color have less protection against ultraviolet light since they have less pigment than those with a darker eye color
If you are at risk, learn more about prevention and treatment.
Need More AMD Information?
For in-depth information on macular degeneration, please visit the Consumer Guide to Macular Degeneration.