What are the risk factors for macular degeneration?

Family History: One of the most prevalent risk factors for the development of macular degeneration is family history.

Age, Smoking: Older the age higher the risk of macular degeneration. History of smoking is a significant risk factor.

See below: Family history, age, smoking, hypertension, lighter-colored eyes, lighter-colored race, obesity, hyperopia.

Genetics are Key: Recent studies show that the main risk factors for developing amd are genes you inherited from your parents related to inflammation. Environment also plays a role. Smoking is a definite risk factor and dietary intake also probably also plays a role. The role of light exposure in provoking amd is still undecided.

Nature and nuture: Jakobsdottir j, conley yp, weeks de, mah ts, ferrell re, gorin mb. Susceptibility genes for age-related maculopathy on chromosome 10q26. Am j hum genet. 2005 sep;77(3):389-407. Epub 2005 jul 26. Pubmed pmid: 16080115; pubmed central pmcid: pmc1226205. You cannot change your genes, but you can change your environment. Avoid smoking, eating meat, & drinking alcohol. Check your bp.