According to a 2006 study published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology, exercise may not only help you improve your physical fitness, but it could also save your eyesight. In fact, this study suggests that regular exercise (three or more times a week) can reduce a person’s risk of Age Related Macular Degeneration by as much as 70%.
Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a degenerative eye disease that damages the central part of the retina, known as the macula, and may eventually permanently distort a person’s central vision. AMD, which is divided into two categories: wet AMD and dry AMD, is the leading cause of severe vision loss in individuals over the age of 60.
- Wet AMD: With wet AMD, a growth of abnormal blood vessels underneath the macula leak into the retina.
- Dry AMD: With dry AMD, which is the more common of the two forms of AMD, individuals experience deposits called drusen in the macula.
Researchers from the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health followed close to 4,000 men and women between the ages of 43 and 85 for 15 years, detailing both their exercise habits and lifestyle. Then, researchers administered comprehensive eye exams every five years to track eye health.
Research Findings: Regular exercise can reduce a person’s risk of Age Related Macular Degeneration by as much as 70%. Researcher M.D. Knudston also suggests other factors, especially diet, could also affect the risk of AMD.
Comprehensive Eye Exams in Annapolis, Maryland
Led by board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Sam Boles, Anne Arundel Eye Center (AAEC) is a regional leader in the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma, cataracts and other eye diseases, like Age Related Macular Degeneration. AAEC offers comprehensive ophthalmic exams as well as diagnostic pre and post-surgical eye care.
To learn more about Age Related Macular Degeneration, please contact Dr. Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com. Staffed by caring and knowledgeable professionals, our state-of-the-art treatment center is dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.
For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.
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Source:
- Exercise may protect Eyesight WebMD
- Knudtson, M. British Journal of Ophthalmology, Oct. 31, 2006, online first edition. News release, BMJ Specialist Journals. WebMD Medical Reference in collaboration with The Cleveland Clinic: “Eye Health: Macular Degeneration.”