Alcohol consumption and smoking connected to AMD risk

New research published in JAMA Ophthalmology has explored the relationship between various lifestyle factors, including smoking and alcohol consumption, and the development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Scientists discovered a potential causal association between alcohol consumption and an increased risk of geographic atrophy, while smoking initiation and lifetime smoking was linked to an increased risk of advanced AMD.

In contrast, smoking cessation was connected to a reduced risk of advanced AMD.

“To reduce the prevalence of advanced AMD in aging populations, public health campaigns and programmes to support smoking abstention, smoking cessation, and reduced alcohol intake should incorporate the evidence that these activities can lead to blindness,” the authors highlighted.

The AOP has worked on public-facing campaigns that encourage smoking cessation and raise awareness of the impact of smoking on eye health.

Resources produced as part of the Stub it out campaign include a patient leaflet on smoking and eye health and resources for practices including a poster and social media assets.