written or reviewed by
Lindsay E. Dawson, M.D.

How Smoking Affects Glaucoma, Cataracts and Eye Health

Everyone knows that smoking is bad for you, but we often don’t think about how nicotine affects more than our lungs and its association with an increased risk of developing cancer. But the effects of smoking reach far beyond that. In fact, research shows that smoking can have a detrimental effect on virtually every organ system in our bodies. More than that, this includes devastating effects on our eyes and to our general vision health.

Quit Smoking and Avoid Age-Related Vision Problems

Research has linked cigarette smoking to several serious eye conditions. Smokers are two to three times more likely to develop cataracts and up to four times more likely to develop age-related macular degeneration than nonsmokers. Smoking has also been studied as a possible risk factor for glaucoma and other eye diseases.

Not surprisingly, smoking also has been proven to be a significant cause in the development of diabetes, which also is a contributing risk factor in development of eye-related conditions such as glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. It only makes sense that taking care of our eyes and our vision starts with preventive care, which should include either quitting smoking, or never starting, in order to reduce your risk for vision problems in the future.

Genetics Plays A Part Too

While genetics and age play important roles in many eye diseases, lifestyle factors can also influence eye health. Smoking is a well-established risk factor for cataracts and macular degeneration. Researchers are also continuing to study its relationship with glaucoma, with some evidence suggesting that heavier smoking may be associated with glaucoma progression.

It should go without saying that risk is tied to frequency, so the more someone smokes, the higher their risk becomes for developing vision problems and potential vision loss. On the flip side, those who smoke less have a lower increased risk, but, of course, the best course of action is to quit smoking, or never start to begin with. Even for those with a strong family history, quitting can be of great benefit to both vision and your overall health.  

Quitting Smoking Will Always Have A Positive Effect

Quitting smoking benefits both your overall health and your eye health. Research indicates that quitting can lower your risk of developing cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. For people with glaucoma, emerging evidence also suggests that long-term smoking cessation may be associated with slower disease progression.

If you want to quit smoking, this is the first step to better overall health! Quitting smoking is hard, so it’s best to make a plan, talk to your doctor about your intentions, and weigh your options for the various smoking cessation aids, such as nicotine replacement and therapy, to help you in your quest to quit smoking. Your eyes will thank you for it.

If you’re a smoker and wondering about your general vision health or your risk for developing glaucoma, cataracts, AMD or other eye conditions, please schedule a consultation with Washington Eye Physicians & Surgeons.