Introduction

Much of the research in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) involves analysis of lifestyle modifiers that can affect the clinical course of AMD. For example, it has been demonstrated that smoking has an associated risk for the development of AMD, and therefore, as a modifiable factor is important for physicians to help patients curb their smoking if they are at risk for or have AMD.^[1] The current analysis attempted to determine the role of alcohol consumption in the risk for or progression of AMD.

Alcohol Consumption and the Risk of Age-Related Macular Degeneration: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Chong EW, Kreis AJ, Wong TY, Simpson JA, Guymer RH
Am J Ophthalmol. 2008;145:707-715

Summary

A meta-analysis of 5 cohort studies that pooled results from 136,946 subjects was performed. Out of these subjects, 1923 developed AMD. All 5 studies found an association between the early development of AMD and heavy alcohol consumption (3 or more standard drinks a day). However, this association was not found for late development of AMD.

Comment

The results of this study suggest that heavy alcohol consumption may be a risk factor for developing AMD. This information may be useful in counseling patients. However, this study could not determine dosage curve; it is still feasible that moderate consumption might be protective against the development of AMD, similar to how it functions in cardiovascular disease.^[2,3]

Abstract