Risk of Macular Degeneration May be Lowered by Physical Activity

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common cause of vision loss in the elderly. In May, 2007, Eyeworld magazine reported that a 15-year study has determined that physical activity may reduce the risk of developing AMD. The AMD study is part of a larger study called the Beaver Dam Eye Study.

Although people who regularly engage in physical activity may be at a lower risk for AMD due to other healthy lifestyle factors, the study found that physical activity may reduce the risk of developing AMD by up to 70%. While the risk did not decrease in younger patients, walking significantly reduced the risk for people 65 years old and older. The results are not conclusive evidence that exercise will prevent AMD, but they are encouraging.


To learn more about vision disorders like AMD, click here to read The LASIK Directory's Vision Disorders page.