Cigarette smoke accelerates eye aging via epigenetic changes, study finds
Medical Xpress
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Cigarette smoke has been shown to accelerate eye aging through epigenetic changes, according to a study by Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers funded by the National Institutes of Health. The research focuses on age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of visual impairment and blindness among individuals over 50. By examining how smoking damages the eye and contributes to AMD development, the study provides new insights into the mechanisms behind this damage.
The experiments revealed that cigarette smoke induces DNA methylation changes in genes associated with retinal health, including those involved in inflammation regulation and cell stress response. These epigenetic alterations can disrupt cellular processes necessary for maintaining healthy vision, ultimately leading to the progression of AMD. Additionally, the study highlights how oxidative stress caused by smoking triggers chronic inflammation and damage to eye cells, further exacerbating AMD.
This research underscores the importance of understanding smoking's impact on eye health and its role in accelerating age-related eye diseases. For individuals concerned about their health, particularly those at risk for AMD, this study emphasizes the need to quit smoking to preserve vision and overall ocular wellness. The findings also contribute valuable information for public health initiatives aimed at reducing smoking rates and preventing AMD-related blindness.
The study's implications are significant for anyone looking to maintain healthy eyes as they age. By shedding light on the link between smoking and AMD, researchers offer a compelling reason for smokers to quit and for non-smokers to avoid tobacco use. This knowledge not only advances medical understanding but also provides actionable advice to protect visual health, making it an essential read for those interested in health and wellness.
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Originally published on Medical Xpress on 2/26/2026