Age related macular degeneration is the # 1 cause of loss of
sight in people over age 65 and older. The macula is the part of
the retina that gives us our sharp vision.  There are 2 kinds of
macular degeneration- wet and dry. Wet means there are vascular
changes- meaning therr are blood vessels that grow where they
should not be. Dry is more commin than wet but wet is more
serious. We do know that vitamins such as beta carotene, C and E
can slow down dry macular degeneration as well as zinc and
lutein.  Risk factors for ARMD include aging, smoking, a family
history. High blood pressure, lighter eye colour and obesity. It
is also thought UV exposure may be a risk factor too. Genetics
and inheritance of an abnormal gene account for ARMD as well.
In this week's JAMA is a study reporting on an association
between regular use of ASA and a 2.5 fold greater risk of AMD-
wet form. The question is whether this is cause and effect or
whether this is merely an association.  Potential explanations
according to an editor