While the number one risk factor for macular degeneration is being 60 years of age or older, there are many other factors that can increase your chances of getting the disease. Some of the risk factors are related to lifestyle choices you can control, and some are related to genetics. Either way, educating yourself about all the risk factors is an important step in helping prevent or slow the disease.

Genetics: Some researchers have conducted studies indicating the presence of two gene deficiencies called 'complement factor B' and 'complement factor H' may be associated as many as 74% of potentially blinding cases of the disease. In addition to these findings, several studies have also concluded that Caucasians and people who have light skin and eye color are more likely to get the disease.

High Blood Pressure: The September 2003 issue of Investigative Ophthalmology and Vision Science reported that a study conducted in the Netherlands found many individuals who have high blood pressure were more apt to get macular degeneration.

Prescription Drug Side Effects: Some cases of macular degeneration have been linked to the side effects of taking certain classes of prescription drugs. The drugs most notably associated with the disease include Aralen, an anti-malarial drug and Phenothiazine, a class of anti-psychotic drugs that includes all of the following brand names: Thorazine, Mellaril, Prolixin, Trilafon and Stelazine.

Obesity: The June 2003 issue of Archives of Ophthalmology included a study reporting that risk factors for macular degeneration are more than double for people who are overweight. The same study reported that those who engage in exercise or vigorous activities at least three times per week decrease their risk for macular degeneration significantly.

Smoking: Two British studies conducted on the disease concluded that a quarter of all macular degeneration cases that cause severe central vision loss are linked to smoking and that risk factors double for those who live with smokers.

If you have noticed that your central vision is blurring or you believe you are at high risk for developing macular degeneration, you should schedule a visit with your eye care specialist today. The sooner you can begin preventative treatment, the better your chances of improving or maintaining the level of vision you have today. By stopping smoking, controlling your blood pressure and becoming more active, you can decrease your risk factors and improve your odds. You can also begin taking special regimens of vitamins and nutrients that are designed to slow the progression of the disease.

Susan Slobac has had a parent diagnosed with macular degeneration. She has had experience in macular degeneration treatment. In this article, she discusses macular degeneration risk factors.

Source: www.articlealley.com