Stop smoking
Studies have shown that cigarette smoking is one of the most damaging behaviours due to its rapid age-accelerating effects and high rate of side effects. Numerous toxic compounds and chemicals found in cigarettes can exacerbate inflammation and damage healthy cells and tissues.
Smoking damages blood vessels throughout the body, including the eyes; it narrows the blood vessels, which reduces blood flow to the eyes. Additionally, smoking reduces protective ocular nutrients, which increases the risk of eye diseases in smokers. It generates free radicals, resulting in oxidative stress due to a deficiency of antioxidants and cellular injury.
According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), twice-daily smokers have an increased risk of developing AMD.
