The specific cause of macular degeneration is not conclusively known, but the interplay between known hereditary and environmental factors is complex. The more that scientists understand the mechanisms that cause the cells of the macula to deteriorate, the more potential treatments they can develop to slow or stop the disease. The challenges are great, because multiple genes are associated with AMD and environmental factors — such as smoking, diet and sun exposure — also impact the disease.
Learn more about the risk factors for macular degeneration.