Investigation of UVR and Age-Related Macular Degeneration

A comprehensive investigation has explored the intricate link between lifelong exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This study was published in the journal Retina by Amari B. and colleagues. This study was conducted through the Alienor study, a prospective population-based cohort located in Bordeaux, France.

This study involved 963 residents aged over 73 years, aiming to investigate the impact of ambient ultraviolet radiation (UVR) on retinal health. To assess participants' lifetime UVR exposure, researchers utilized their residential history and UVR estimates derived from the EuroSun satellite.

Key Findings

• The study, spanning from 2006 to 2017, revealed that intermediate quartiles of total UV, ultraviolet A, and ultraviolet B exposures were associated with a higher risk for incident early AMD compared to lower quartiles.
• The risk did not show a further increase in the highest quartiles of exposure.
• No significant associations were found between any type of UVR exposure and incident advanced AMD.

Despite an increased risk of early AMD with intermediate UVR exposure, the study fails to confirm a dose–response relationship, adding complexity to the understanding of UV exposure and its role in AMD onset. The intricate dynamics of UVR and AMD warrant further exploration for a more nuanced understanding of this eye disease.

Reference

Amari, B., Merle, B. M. J., Korobelnik, J.-F., Delyfer, M.-N., Boniol, M., Dore, J.-F., Helmer, C., Delcourt, C., & Cougnard-Gregoire, A. Lifetime ambient ultraviolet radiation exposure and incidence of age-related macular degeneration. Retina (Philadelphia, Pa.), 2024; 44(1):28–36. https://doi.org/10.1097/iae.0000000000003917