We welcome The Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which was introduced to Parliament this week. It’s aimed at protecting people from the harms of smoking.
There is strong evidence that smoking is causally linked to age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which can cause irreversible sight loss. Smokers are up to four times more likely to have AMD than non-smokers, and the disease will progress quicker and be less responsive to treatment. Secondhand smoking is also likely to increase the risk of AMD. Smoking is also linked with the development of thyroid eye disease and dry eye syndrome.
College President, Professor Ben Burton, said: “It is vital that we do more to help people preserve their sight and maintain their quality of life. We know that smoking significantly increases the likelihood of developing a number of eye diseases, including AMD, that can cause irreversible blindness. This legislation should help the next generation to avoid smoking and enjoy good eye health for longer”.