Air pollution linked to higher risk of sight loss

You may have seen a recent news article from The Guardian detailing evidence from a new UK-based study that small increases in air pollution are linked to an increased risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Dr Paramdeep Bilkhu MCOptom, Clinical Adviser to The College of Optometrists, says: “It’s important to note that although this study gives us insight into environmental factors that are associated with AMD, it should not discourage members of the public from spending time outside, but consider the environmental impact of their lifestyle choices. Further, the study shows the need to act on air pollution issues quickly as the associated increased risk of AMD will otherwise grow over time. We are aware that air pollutants are increasingly being linked to a wide range of health diseases, which makes small lifestyle changes in the effort to improve air quality and tackle climate change all the more essential.”

Useful resources include: 

• Patient information: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
• Video: All about your eyes: AMD
• Video: Through my eyes: AMD
• Acuity: Protecting eyes from air pollution (College members only)