Stub Out That Cigarette to avoid AMD

Smokers double their risk of developing AMD, one of the UK’s leading causes of sight loss

Need inspiring that it’s time to quit smoking? It’s an alarming fact that not only does smoking cause lung cancer, it can also cause blindness. It’s reported that smokers are up to four times more likely than non-smokers to develop age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and that figure increases by double if there’s also a genetic family history of the condition.

It’s well known that cigarettes contain thousands of toxic chemicals, which decrease the number of antioxidants in the body. These in turn reduce the body’s ability to protect itself from conditions such as AMD.

Quitting smoking and also limiting exposure to passive smoke greatly reduce the chances of developing the condition and reduce the likelihood of it progressing. It’s been proven passive smoking can be almost as harmful as smoking itself.

Some research suggests that smokers have lower levels of the macular pigments lutein and zeaxanthin, which are thought to protect the macula from the damaging effects of sunlight. The macula is the central part of the retina, which is important for fine vision.

So the best thing to do to look after your sight?

Stub out that cigarette and see a much clearer future

If you need help to stop smoking, please talk to your GP or find out more at Smokefree

For further information from the RNIB click here