Do you know your risk factors when it comes to age-related macular degeneration (ARMD), the leading cause of vision loss in Canadians over the age of 50? There are many known risk factors for developing age-related macular degeneration, some of which you can control. It’s especially important for patients with a family history to start considering lifestyle modifications early on, as they have a 4 times great risk of developing ARMD.

Non-Modifiable Risk Factors for age-related macular degeneration

• A Family History of Age-Related Macular Degeneration
• Age 50+
• Female > Males
• Light coloured eyes
• Ethnicity - Caucasians are at the greatest risk

Modifiable Risk Factors for age-related macular degeneration

• Smoking Cigarettes
• Cardiovascular disease
• Uncontrolled high blood pressure
• Elevated cholesterol levels
• Being Overweight
• Eating fatty foods
• A diet low in fresh fruits & vegetables
• A diet low in omega-3
• Living a sedentary lifestyle
• Excessive sunlight exposure

Before you get caught, please talk to your optometrist about age-related macular degeneration and what you can do to reduce your overall risk. Annual eye exams by an optometrist may also help to detect the early warning signs of age-related macular degeneration and ensure timely intervention.