Who Is at Risk for Wet Macular Degeneration? Identifying Key Factors 🧐
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At a Glance
Wet macular degeneration (wet AMD) is a serious form of vision loss characterized by abnormal blood vessel growth beneath the macula, which can leak fluid and rapidly impair central vision. Understanding who’s most at risk empowers you to take proactive steps to protect your sight.
🔬 What the Research Says
Age & Genetics: Risk rises sharply after age 50, and with a family history of AMD, your chances increase substantially
Smoking & Lifestyle: Smokers are 2–5× more likely to develop AMD. Sedentary lifestyle, obesity, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol also raise risk .
Sun Exposure: Long-term UV exposure without protection accelerates damage in light-colored eyes .
Diet & Inflammation: A poor diet low in antioxidants (like lutein and zeaxanthin) and high in saturated fats increases progression to wet AMD.
🧠 Who’s at Risk?
Older adults (50+)
Smokers or former smokers
People with obesity or cardiovascular disease
Those with light-colored eyes or prolonged sun exposure
Individuals with poor nutrition—low in antioxidants, high in fats/sugars
People with family history of AMD
❤️ Effects on Eye Health
Rapid vision loss: Once wet AMD sets in, vision can deteriorate quickly.
Central vision distortion: Objects may appear blurry or wavy, making reading and driving hazardous.