The risk for macular degeneration increases with age. Genetics may be another risk factor, such as having one or more close relatives with this disease or a gene mutation that influences its development.

Macular degeneration is a progressive eye disease in which the macula inside your retina gets damaged and scarred.

Also called age-related macular degeneration (AMD), this condition is common as people age. It affects central vision and may lead to vision loss if left untreated.

Not all older adults will develop AMD, and age is not the only cause. Several other risk factors can contribute to macular degeneration, including underlying health conditions, lifestyle, and even genetics.

This article explores the possible connections between genes and macular degeneration, along with other risk factors.

Overall, it’s thought that between 15% and 20% of adults who have AMD also have one or more first-degree relatives with this eye disease. These include a parent or a sibling.

Aside from general family history, researchers now believe there are specific genetic mutations that could influence the development of macular degeneration.

According to a 2024 review, there may be more than 52 gene variants associated with AMD. Among these include the ARMS2, CFH, and HTRA1 genes.

Genes that influence high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol processing may also be linked with AMD development.

It’s not yet clear exactly how these genes influence AMD development or whether knowing about them might affect treatment. Researchers are also investigating whether AMD develops from just one or perhaps multiple genetic mutations.

Does macular degeneration skip a generation?

Currently, there’s no known inheritance pattern for AMD development, including whether it skips a generation. Many people with AMD do have a parent or other first-degree relative with this eye condition.

However, having a parent or sibling doesn’t mean you will automatically develop macular degeneration. Age is still the greatest risk factor, though there are other factors that might increase your overall risk for AMD development, too.

Aside from family history, AMD is also most prevalent in non-Hispanic white people over the age of 55.

Despite these known risk factors, researchers still aren’t exactly sure how these might cause AMD.

While family history and age are risk factors for AMD that you can’t control, you can adopt certain lifestyle changes that may help reduce other risk factors that can contribute to this eye condition.

Treat underlying health conditions

First, if you have any underlying medical conditions, it’s important to see a doctor on a regular basis to make sure your treatment plan is working.

Underlying medication conditions that may increase your risk of developing AMD include:

Manage your weight

If you have overweight or obesity, a doctor can also recommend ways to decrease your body mass, such as through diet and exercise. Regular exercise and weight management may also help improve your blood pressure and cholesterol.

Up your intake of fish and plant foods

Certain dietary changes may also help lower your risk of this eye disease. Eating fish and plant foods, particularly dark leafy greens and yellow or orange fruits and vegetables, may be linked with better eye health.

Ask your doctor about supplements

AREDS 2 (a specific formulation of vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, copper, lutein, and zeaxanthin) does not prevent AMD but can slow the progression in those with intermediate or advanced AMD.

For general eye health, you may consider taking the following supplements:

Be sure to talk with a doctor before taking any supplements.

Quit smoking (if you smoke)

If you smoke, it’s perhaps more important than ever to quit. You can reduce your risk for macular degeneration as well as numerous other health consequences. Talk with a doctor about a plan to help safely quit smoking.

Schedule yearly eye exams

Finally, seeing an eye doctor for annual exams is essential to detecting AMD as early as possible. If you’re in your 50s and have a family history of AMD or any other risk factors, an eye doctor might recommend more frequent exams.

Vision loss from AMD cannot be completely prevented, but its progression can be slowed, especially if caught early.

Macular degeneration, or AMD, is a very common eye disease. While its prevalence increases with age, researchers believe that age is not the only risk factor. AMD has a strong genetic component, and the condition can also run in families.

Still, whether you have a family history of AMD or not, much about the inheritance of this eye condition is currently unknown. Aside from genes, you can take other steps to possibly lower your risk of AMD development, such as eating a balanced diet, exercising, and quitting smoking.

If you have any unusual vision changes, such as blurriness, visit an eye doctor for an exam. Prompt treatment may help reduce the risk of further vision loss.