Smoking a cause of Macular Degeneration

Smokers are three times more likely to develop Macular Degeneration (MD), leading to blindness, according to Optometrists Association Australia (OOA).

Age related macular degeneration is responsible for almost half of severe vision loss in Australia and smoking is the only modifiable risk factor in the disease, according to OOA Victorian State President Paula Monaco.

Research into Macular Degeneration, has found that 40% of individuals with the more severe form of the disease accessed treatment too late, reducing their chances of effective treatment.

In 57% of these cases the delay was a result of being unaware of the symptoms or unknowingly linking the symptoms to something else.

With one in seven people over the age of 50 at risk of developing Macular Degeneration 2, OOA is urging people to have their eyes examined regularly and to be aware of the symptoms of MD.

Macular Degeneration can lead to blindness but early detection increases treatment options, helping sufferers maintain quality of life. Some of the common symptoms of Macular Degeneration include:

• Dark patches or empty spaces in vision
• Difficulty in reading or doing activities which require fine vision
• The distortion of straight lines becoming wavy or bent
• Difficulty in distinguishing anything in central vision

Tips to reduce the risk of developing MD:

• Quit smoking
• Exercise regularly
• Eat a well balanced diet with fish, dark green leafy vegetables and nuts
• Protect your eyes from UV damage

The more severe ‘wet’ form of Macular Degeneration can result in sudden vision loss and is caused by abnormal blood vessels growing into the retina.

Regular eye examinations are the key to the better the prospects for treatment.