Tobacco use harms every organ in the body, including the eyes. The harmful\u2014and often fatal\u2014health effects of smoking, such as cancer, respiratory disease, and heart disease, are relatively well known. Conversely, the damage to vision caused by smoking, with the risk of blindness, is generally less well known. For example, smokers are up to four times more likely to go blind than the general population.<\/p>\n
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n Smokers and ex-smokers are more likely to develop AMD than people who have never smoked.<\/p>\n This disease occurs when a part of the retina called the macula is damaged. It results in a progressive loss of central vision while peripheral vision remains largely normal, resulting in the inability to see details and, in particular, to read. Current treatments remain ineffective.<\/p>\n Uveitis<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n The uvea is made up of the iris, the ciliary body, and the choroid. Its inflammation is called uveitis, and results in a red and painful eye. The consequences of uveitis are varied and can be serious, with the possibility, in particular, of glaucoma. Uveitis is more common in smokers.<\/p>\n Cataracts<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n Similarly, tobacco consumption increases the risk of cataracts, due to opacification of the lens, with the occurrence of blurred and dull vision.<\/p>\n Diabetic retinopathy<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n Smokers who suffer from diabetes are at greater risk of developing diabetic retinopathy, due to damage to the blood vessels that supply the retina, with deterioration of vision that can lead to blindness.<\/p>\n \n Optic nerve problems<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n People who smoke are at risk for optic nerve problems. The optic nerve connects the eye to the brain. Damage to this nerve can lead to blindness.<\/p>\n Smoking can increase risk factors that can lead to glaucoma, a disease that affects the optic nerve.<\/p>\n