What causes macular degeneration?

Vitamins lifestyle: Macular degeneration is thought to occur from aging, exposure to uv radiation, exposure to toxins (smoking) and "pre-programmed" by genetics (family and race). You can lessen your risk by am early eye exam, don't smoke, shield your exposure from uv and follow your doctor's advice for nutrition and vitamins based on your age and exam. No prescribed drug yet.

Genetics: The predisposition for macular degeneration is inherited. It is a very complex disease with several, if not many genetic mutations contributing to risk. Additionally, there are other health factors that modulate disease risk. Most importantly nutrition, but also life style (smoking=bad), etc. Rule of thumb: if something is thought to be good for the heart, it probably also reduces amd risk.