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• Age-Related Macular Degeneration Doubles Heart Attack and Stroke Risk Eye disease carries same risk as other circulatory problems, experts say 

People suffering from age-related macular degeneration (AMD) have twice the risk of dying from heart attack or stroke, Australian researchers report.

The degenerative eye disease is the most common cause of untreatable blindness among older adults in developed countries and affects the center of the retina at the back of the eye, which is essential for tasks such as reading and driving. .. .

"While AMD, particularly in its late stage, occurs in people of relatively older ages, it may be associated with an increased vascular risk," Mitchell said. "This could, in part, reflect shared risk factors such as smoking."

One expert noted that because AMD is a vascular problem, it is not surprising that it is associated with increased cardiovascular risk.

"Age-related macular degeneration and atherosclerotic vascular share common risk factors that include hypertension, hyperlipidemia and smoking," said Dr. Gregg C. Fonarow, a professor of cardiology at the University of California, Los Angeles.

In addition, systemic inflammation may increase the risk of AMD and atherosclerosis, Fonarow said.

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