How do smoking and aging affect my risk for cataract and macular degeneration?
Cataract and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) are two common eye conditions that can cause vision loss. Aging is the main risk factor for both, but smoking significantly raises your risk and can make the effects of aging worse. Research shows that smoking and aging work together to increase the chance of having both cataract and AMD at the same time 6.
What the research says
A study of 640 people found that smoking was linked to a much higher risk of having both cataract and AMD, especially in people over age 75 6. The same study showed that C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation in the body, also played a role, suggesting that smoking may increase risk partly through inflammation 6. Another review explains that smoking causes oxidative stress and DNA damage in the eye, which can lead to cataract and AMD 9. Aging itself is a major risk factor: AMD is most common in people over 60, and cataract becomes more frequent with age 10. Genetic factors also matter, but smoking and age are key environmental triggers 910.
What to ask your doctor
- How does my smoking history affect my personal risk for cataract and AMD?
- Should I have regular eye exams to check for early signs of these conditions?
- What can I do to reduce inflammation and protect my eyes as I age?
- Are there any supplements or lifestyle changes that might lower my risk?
- If I quit smoking now, how much will that lower my future eye disease risk?
This question is drawn from common patient questions about this topic and answered using cited medical research. We do not provide individualized advice.