Study of Risk Factors Associated with Age Related Macular Degeneration in North Indian Population

Abstract

Introduction: Age-related macular degeneration ARMD is becoming the leading cause of visual impairment. As the size of elderly population is rising in developing countries. To prevent the ARMD and enhance functioning of these persons the knowledge of ris factors are very important. Material and Method: The study includes 156 patients out of which 50 patients of ARMD and 106 controls all patient’s demographic data was recorded and clinical history and examination undertaken all the patients interview to obtain medical residential occupational and smoking history blood pressure visual acuity height weight and refractive error were measured. Detailed ocular examination with the help of indirect of thermos was done and grid and fluorescent angiography done for all patients. Result: ARMD was most common in 61-70 years age group (40%). 32% of ARMD patients were labor 30% were farmer maximum number 32% of ARMD where illiterate education status was not found to be statistically significant P > 0.9 prevalence of AR MD was higher in hypermetropia 74.07% 22.22% myopia 3.71% was emetropia (P<0.001). Among hyperopia 32% of AR MD patient have refractive error of +2 to +3 D (p< 0.05). 58% of ARMD patient were smokers (P<0.05). Conclusion: The study found age is the most significant refactor for ARMD. Other significant risk factors were hyperopia, smoking, obesity and high blood pressure. Cataractous lens and colour of iris was not found to be significant risk factors for ARMD patients.