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Causes of Macular DegenerationMacular degeneration is the most common source of vision loss among people over the age of 60, impact more than 15 million people in the United States alone. What causes this potentially devastating disease? While the condition is often described as an age-related illness, there are a number of different factors that can contribute to the development of macular degeneration. AgeThe aging process is perhaps the biggest cause of macular degeneration. As people get older, the retina becomes thinner which can result in significant vision loss. According to recent studies, the prevalence of the disease increases significantly between the ages of 60 and 90, jumping from 1 percent of the population to nearly 15 percent during those years. Family HistorySeveral recent studies have found genetic components that may contribute to the development of macular degeneration. Variants of two genes in particular, complement factor H and complement factor B, have been found in people suffering from macular degeneration. For this reason, people with a family history of the condition should have regular eye exams. SmokingAccording to a recently published study, more than 25 percent of macular degeneration cases can be linked to smoking. Researchers suggest that smoking doubles the chances of an individual developing macular degeneration later in life. High Blood Pressure and ObesityRecent European studies suggest that there is a link between high blood pressure and macular degeneration. Other studies have found that overweight people are twice as likely to develop the disease. Researchers have also found that regular physical activity lowers the likelihood of developing macular degeneration. Light Eye ColorWhile the exact reasons are not clear, people with light skin and eye colors are far more likely to suffer from macular degeneration as they age. Some experts suggest that the extra pigment in dark eyes acts as a protective agent, but there is no conclusive evidence that this is the case. In order to protect their eyesight, people should understand the possible causes of macular degeneration. Knowing the risk factors and getting regular eye exams can help detect potential problems early. |