1. Aging: Although AMD may occur earlier, people over 65 are at far greater risk of developing AMD. The incidence of AMD is about 2% of those under age 60, 15%-25% of people age 65-74, and 35%-40% of people over age 74.
2. Race: Almost 90% of Americans with AMD are white.
3. Heredity: While not all types of macular degeneration are hereditary, certain genes have been strongly associated with a person’s risk for AMD; genetic predisposition may account for half of the cases of AMD in the U.S.
4. Family history: Studies indicate that your chances of developing AMD are 3-4 times higher if you have a parent or sibling with macular degeneration.
If you have any of these risk factors, regular comprehensive eye exams are critical in detecting early signs of AMD.