Smokers are up to four times more likely to go blind or suffer visual impairment later in life than non-smokers, researchers say today. They are more likely to develop Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the most common cause of adult blindness. The condition results in severe and permanent loss of central vision.
BBC health correspondent Adam Brimelow said the condition affects the centre of the retina, making objects appear blurred.
It can then progress to destroy central vision.
“The researchers estimate that more than 50,000 people in the UK aged over 69 have damaged eyesight because of AMD that can be attributed to smoking,” he said. “Of these almost 18,000 are blind.
“People in Britain are largely unaware of a link.”
Researchers say using the evidence in anti-smoking campaigns has already raised awareness in Australia and New Zealand.