Research Journal of Medical Sciences
ISSN: Online 1993-6095ISSN: Print 1815-9346
Abstract
Age‐related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss in the elderly. Understanding its prevalence and associated lifestyle factors is crucial for developing preventive strategies. This study aims to determine the prevalence of AMD in individuals aged 65 and over and to identify key lifestyle factors that may contribute to the risk of developing AMD. A cross‐sectional study was conducted with 300 participants aged 65 years and older. Data were collected through comprehensive eye examinations and structured interviews assessing lifestyle factors such as diet, smoking, physical activity and sun exposure. The prevalence of Age‐related Macular Degeneration (AMD) in the study population was found to be 29.3%. Significant associations were identified between AMD and factors including smoking, high‐fat diet and high sun exposure. Specifically, the prevalence of AMD was 40% among smokers compared to 24% in non‐smokers, with an Odds Ratio (OR) of 2.5 (P=0.001). Participants on a high‐fat diet showed a 41.7% prevalence, significantly higher than those not on a high‐fat diet (OR=2.7, P<0.001). Additionally, high sun exposure was associated with a 43.8% prevalence of AMD, which is considerably higher than in those with low sun exposure (OR=3.1, P=0.002). The study highlights the prevalence of AMD in the elderly and underscores the importance of lifestyle factors in its development. These findings can inform public health strategies aimed at reducing the risk of AMD through lifestyle modifications.
How to cite this article:
S. Patil Pushpa and Krishnadeo Vishnu Nalawade. Age‐related Macular Degeneration in the Elderly Population: Prevalence and Associated Lifestyle Factors.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36478/10.36478/makrjms.2023.12.593.597
URL: https://www.makhillpublications.co/view-article/1815-9346/10.36478/makrjms.2023.12.593.597