Smokers at higher risk of AMD, says WHO

Research found that tobacco use is likely to develop age-related macular degeneration (AMD) up to 5.5 years earlier.

A brief by the World Health Organization (WHO) and other academics revealed the heightened risk of getting AMD and cataracts as a smoker, with second-hand smokers twice as likely than the average person to develop AMD.

Tobacco and free-radical production, caused by e-cigarettes, have also been linked to cataracts due to the reduced blood flow to the eyes, change in retinal function and higher risk of developing eye cancer.

Jude Stern, head of knowledge management at the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness, commented: ‘Smoking increases your risk of developing serious eye conditions and permanent sight loss. Quitting smoking and having regular eye tests can help improve eye health and prevent avoidable sight loss.’