Age-related macular degeneration usually occurs in people who are age 50 and older. As people get older, the risk increases. Other risk factors include the following:
- Smoking. Research shows that smoking increases the risk of AMD two-fold.
- Race. Caucasians are much more likely to get AMD than people of African descent.
- Family history. People with a family history of AMD are at higher risk.
Does lifestyle make a difference?
Some lifestyle choices, like smoking, are linked to AMD although it remains unknown if altering any of these would alter the impact of AMD on an individual. Nevertheless, the following choices may have an impact on AMD and certainly promote healthy living, including the following:
- Avoid smoking
- Exercise
- Maintain normal blood pressure and cholesterol level
- Eat a healthy diet rich in green, leafy vegetables and fish