Risk factors for age related maculopathy in a Tunisian population

Abstract

Abstract Purpose: The aim of this study is to identify risk factors for AMD in the Tunisian population which is exposed to intense sunlight and have important seafood diet. Methods: A prospective study was conducted including 2204 persons aged more than 50 years which came to our hospital as patient or as accompanying adult. Patients responded to a questionnaire asking about medical history, habits and behaviour, sun exposure, diet and smoking habits. A complete ophthalmic examination was undertaken in patients with AMD.The median age of patients was 66 ± 9.5 years old (range 50‐100). Lesions are classified in early and late stages of AMD. Statistical analysis was done. Results: Prevalence of AMD in our studied population was 16.4 %. Age was a significant risk factor. Prevalence of AMD was 12.5% in group patient aged between 50 and 60 years and 31% in group patient aged more than 80 years (P=0.001). Males were more exposed to AMD than females (p=0,001).Excessive sun exposure, lack of nutrients and antioxidants increased significantly the risk of AMD (P<10‐3). Smoking was the most important risk factor (P< 10‐3) and prevalence increased proportionally to the importance of cumulated annual consummation. Cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and dyslipimia were not significantly associated to a high prevalence of AMD. Cataract extraction did not increase the risk of AMD in our study and myopia was associated to a low risk of AMD. Conclusions: AMD is a multifactoriel disease. Some preventive measure were effectives. Genetics’ studies of the disease could identify population at risk.