Rohan J. ShahQ: Can smoking affect my eyesight?
A: Yes, definitely. In addition to several other negative effects on the body, smoking can cause specific changes to the eye that can affect long-term vision. Smoking is known to promote oxidative injury, which can more rapidly induce cataract formation in the eye’s natural lens, and for hastening the development of macular degeneration. In fact, smoking cessation is the one modifiable risk factor known to reduce development and progression of macular degeneration, which can lead to central-vision loss.
– Dr. Rohan J. Shah, Southeastern Retina Associates; member, Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society