Macular degeneration, medically known as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is an eye disease that occurs when the macula — the center of vision — gradually deteriorates over time.
It is one of the most common causes of vision loss, especially in individuals over the age of 50.

The macula is a very sensitive area located in the center of the retina and is responsible for sharp, detailed, and color vision.
In macular degeneration, the cells in this region are slowly damaged. Although aging is the leading cause, genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors also play an important role in the development of the disease.

Ophthalmology specialist Op. Dr. Diclehan explains the causes of macular degeneration as follows:
“This disease is multifactorial; both genetic inheritance and lifestyle habits determine eye health.” He emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and conscious living.

The Anatomical Basis of Macular Degeneration

The macula is a highly specialized region in the center of the retina that allows sharp vision. It contains densely packed light-sensitive photoreceptor cells.
Over time, these cells may become damaged due to aging, oxidative stress, or circulatory problems, leading to reduced vision quality, difficulty distinguishing colors, and central vision loss.

According to Op. Dr. Diclehan, the macular cells are extremely delicate and their ability to regenerate decreases with age — making eye-protective habits increasingly important.

Types of Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration occurs in two main forms:

Dry (Atrophic) AMD
This is the most common type and results from gradual thinning and degeneration of macular cells.
It progresses slowly but can eventually lead to serious vision loss if untreated.
Op. Dr. Diclehan notes that diet and antioxidant supplements may help slow progression in early stages.

Wet (Exudative) AMD
This form involves abnormal blood vessel growth beneath the retina. These vessels may leak fluid or bleed, damaging the macula.
It progresses rapidly and can cause sudden central vision loss.
According to Op. Dr. Diclehan, abnormal vessel formation is the key factor in wet AMD, and early injection therapy can help preserve vision.

Main Causes of Macular Degeneration

Aging
The most important risk factor is aging. With age, cell renewal slows, blood vessels lose elasticity, and oxidative stress increases.
Op. Dr. Diclehan states:
“Aging cannot be stopped, but eye aging can be slowed down.”

Genetic Predisposition

A family history of AMD significantly increases risk. Certain genes make retinal cells more vulnerable to oxidative stress.
People with genetic risk should begin regular retinal examinations after age 40.

Smoking
Smoking is one of the strongest environmental risk factors. It narrows retinal blood vessels, reduces oxygen flow, and increases oxidative damage.
Smokers are 3–5 times more likely to develop AMD.
Quitting smoking reduces risk considerably.

Poor Diet
Deficiencies in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals weaken eye tissue. Lack of lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, and omega-3 increases risk.
A diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and fish helps protect the macula.

Sun Exposure (UV Light)
Long-term UV exposure produces free radicals that damage retinal cells.
UV-protective sunglasses reduce this risk.

Vascular Disease & High Cholesterol
Conditions such as hypertension and high cholesterol impair blood flow to the retina, reducing oxygen supply and damaging macular cells.

Diabetes
High blood sugar damages retinal blood vessels and can trigger AMD or worsen existing disease.
Diabetics should control blood sugar and undergo regular eye exams.

Hormonal Factors
AMD is slightly more common in women, especially after menopause due to reduced estrogen levels.

Obesity & Sedentary Lifestyle
Excess weight and inactivity impair blood circulation and slow cellular renewal.

Other Contributing Factors
Additional triggers include

• Long-term screen exposure
• Air pollution and toxins
• Stress and sleep deprivation
• Sudden blood pressure changes
• High-fat diet

Op. Dr. Diclehan warns that blue light may damage the retina and recommends regular screen breaks.

Can Macular Degeneration Be Prevented?

Although it cannot be fully prevented, risk can be significantly reduced by

• Avoiding smoking and alcohol
• Having regular eye exams
• Eating an antioxidant-rich diet
• Wearing UV-filter sunglasses
• Controlling blood pressure and cholesterol
• Exercising regularly
• Consuming omega-3-rich fish

The Importance of Early Diagnosis

Early detection is the most effective way to protect vision.
Modern tests such as OCT and fluorescein angiography allow AMD to be identified at very early stages.

Macular degeneration develops due to multiple interacting factors including aging, genetics, smoking, poor diet, and UV exposure.
However, early diagnosis, a healthy lifestyle, and regular follow-up greatly reduce its impact.

With his expertise, Op. Dr. Diclehan provides individualized diagnosis and treatment plans, especially for high-risk patients.
And remember the most effective way to protect eye health is to take precautions before disease develops.