In a meta-analysis of eight studies, researchers in China found three air pollutants – particulate matter less than 2.5μm in diameter (PM2.5), NO₂ and ozone (O₃) – increased the risk of AMD. 

Writing in BMC Ophthalmology, the research team, led by ophthalmologist Dr Jiali Wu, Shanghai General Hospital, said current evidence includes a cross-sectional Chinese study which reported a significant positive association between PM2.5 and AMD. In addition, PM2.5 can cause neurodegenerative diseases, including reduced cognitive function, accelerated cognitive decline, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease, they said. “Given that AMD is a neurodegenerative disease, these studies further justify the plausibility of a correlation between AMD and air pollution.”  

Extensive studies are urgently required, they said, to investigate air pollutants and their influence on AMD and other ocular diseases. “Further strategies for reducing ambient air pollution exposure are essential for public health, which may ultimately mitigate AMD,” the concluded.