Smoking may Lead to Blindness
Reported March 9, 2004
(Ivanhoe Newswire) -- A new study offers another reason for smokers to quit. Smokers are up to four-times as likely to become blind later in life from age-related macular degeneration. Researchers say many people are unaware of this risk.
The study showed quitting smoking slows the development of the blinding condition. On the other hand, continued smoking can affect the long-term response to treatments such as laser therapy. Age-related macular degeneration is the most common cause of adult blindness, which results in irreversible loss of central vision. One in five cases of the condition in England, where the study was done, may be attributable to smoking.
Investigators suggest offering smoking cessation support to people attending eye clinics and more specific warnings of the impact of smoking on eyesight. They also recommend a campaign to raise awareness of the link between smoking and blindness.
In an accompanying editorial, ophthalmic surgeon Simon Kelly mentions publicity about smoking and blindness in New Zealand increased telephone calls to the national Quitline, and a television campaign was considered more successful than other ads relating smoking to stroke and heart disease. He also mentions that smoking has been associated with several other eye diseases including nuclear cataract and thyroid eye disease. He says professionals, as well as the public, would benefit from greater awareness.
SOURCE: To be published in an upcoming issue of British Medical Journal
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