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There are many things that cause AMD. We now know that genetics
play a significant role. We have identified over 20 genes now that can
lead to the development of advanced macular degeneration.
However, we also know that there are many lifestyle factors that contribute to the
development of advanced disease.
Smoking is a great example. Smoking can almost double your risk of developing
advanced macular degeneration.
Other lifestyle factors include poor diet,
lack of exercise, and increased body mass index. So I like to tell all my
patients that,
in general, any lifestyle habit that's going to increase your risk for
cardiovascular or heart disease is probably going to increase your risk to develop
advanced AMD as well.