Risk Factors for Age-related Macular Degeneration
Although the pathogenesis of age-related macular disease (ARMD) is still not fully understood, genetic and environmental factors are implicated. Epidemiological studies have found conflicting findings between ARMD development and many potential risk factors. This review provides an up-to-date account of modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors associated with ARMD development, with potential mechanisms between risk factors and ARMD development described. Age, smoking and genetic factors appear to be consistently associated with an increased risk of developing ARMD. However, ageing and genetic disposition cannot be currently modified, leading to increased interest as to how other modifiable factors may reduce the risk of ARMD.