Poor Air Quality Linked to AMD
A new study out has poor air quality linked with AMD or age-related macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness. The study by the British Journal of Ophthalmology found that people who live in highly polluted areas were more likely to have AMD than people living in less polluted areas.
The response from pollution can increase the risk of dry macular degeneration and increase the inflammatory responses, but they still do not understand the mechanism involved in causing AMD.
What is AMD?
The symptoms of AMD include blurry central vision and/or seeing way lines, but AMD rarely has signs or symptoms early on, making it difficult to detect and diagnose. Because of this it is important that you get your eyes checked regularly annually.
What Can We Do to Protect Ourselves?
Although our genetics contribute to at least half the risk of getting AMD, there are lifestyle changes we can make to improve our chances. Those lifestyle changes include, eating righ, exercising and most importantly quitting smoking. Smoking, high blood pressure and high cholesterol increase your risks.
Treatment for AMD is most effective if started early. The need for regular comprehensive eye exams help to lower your risk of vision loss.
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Source: aao.org