A cross-sectional study on the prevalence and risk factors of age-related macular degeneration

Objectives: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a major cause of irreversible central vision loss among the elderly, and it significantly affects quality of life. Its pathogenesis involves both modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors, making early detection and prevention essential. This study aims to determine the prevalence of AMD in a tertiary care hospital in western India and to evaluate its association with demographic, systemic and lifestyle factors, including age, gender, diabetes, hypertension, tobacco use and sunlight exposure. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted between January 2023 and June 2023 among 150 individuals aged 50 years and above attending the Ophthalmology Department of Jagjivanram Railway Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. Detailed demographic, systemic and lifestyle histories were recorded. Fundus examination classified AMD into non-neovascular (dry) or vascular (wet) type and staged it according to age-related eye disease study classification. Statistical analysis was performed using Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests to assess associations between AMD and risk factors. Results: AMD was detected in 16.7% of participants, with dry AMD in 8.7% and wet AMD in 8.0%. Among these, 24% were early stage, 32% intermediate and 44% late stage. Smoking ( P = 0.014) and sunlight exposure of <2 h daily ( P = 0.038) were significantly associated with AMD, while diabetes showed a borderline association ( P = 0.054). No significant associations were noted with age, gender or hypertension. Conclusion: Approximately one in six elderly individuals in this cohort had AMD, with smoking and inadequate sunlight exposure as significant risk factors. These findings highlight the importance of lifestyle modifications, ultraviolet (UV)-protective practices and targeted screening to prevent progression and late-stage presentation.