It is a condition that becomes more common with increasing age. However, it is now known that there is a significant inherited element to AMD and several faulty genes have been identified that increase the risk of developing this condition.
Researchers are becoming more confident that susceptibility to AMD has a genetic component, and several genetic variations have been identified that are associated with increased risk. However, AMD is not directly caused by a fault in a single gene, and susceptibility will also be influenced by environmental and lifestyle factors. AMD is not classed as an inherited retinal disease, and falls outside of the scope of Retina UK. However, the Macular Society provides extensive information and support, and funds AMD research.
Further detailed information on AMD is available from the Macular Society