What is the most common risk factor for developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD)?

Age is a significant risk factor for developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and individuals over the age of 50 are at a markedly increased risk. The likelihood of AMD increases as people age due to various physiological changes in the retina that occur over time. The aging process leads to thinning of the retinal pigment epithelium and various degenerative changes that are characteristic of AMD.

While other factors like hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and smoking can contribute to the overall risk of developing AMD or may exacerbate its progression, age remains the predominant risk factor that distinguishes the likelihood of developing the condition. Support from studies indicates that AMD is less commonly diagnosed in younger populations, reinforcing the association between age and the prevalence of the disease.