Are you at risk?
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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.
