How Does Smoking Affect My Risk Of Developing An Eye Problem?

Aug. 24, 2009— -- Question: How does smoking affect my risk of developing an eye problem?

Answer: Smoking reduces the circulation to the eye and may increase the absorption of a number of toxic substances to the eye, including nicotine and various components of tar. These may result in increases of certain growth factors, which worsen diseases such as diabetic retinopathy or macular degeneration.