A new study was just published by the Archives of Ophthalmology which showed that smoking contributes to ones risk of developing Age Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD).

ARMD is particularly disturbing because it is progressive, there is no known cure and no way to reverse the loss of vision. It tends to run in families – for example, it affects my mother as well as all of her siblings. It is also more common in women.
What can you do?

• See your eye doctor (either an ophthalmologists or optometrists) for a check up.
• There are various vitamin/antioxidant preparations available which appear to slow the development and progression. It should contain vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, zinc oxide and copper.
• There is evidence that supplements containing lutein and zeaxanthin (in addition to the above) can also be helpful.
• Stop Smoking!

For further resources on ARMD:

• National Eye Institute
• Macular Degeneration Foundation
• Mayo Clinic – Macular Degeneration