AMD and UV Exposure from Snow

Ask an Eye M.D. Answer Archive

Question:
Can sunlight glare from snow cause AMD or contribute to it?

Answer:
Absolutely. One of the contributing factors in the progression of age related macular degeneration (AMD) is ultraviolet exposure. As you know, sunlight contains ultraviolet rays, and reflected sunlight from the snow will further increase the UV load unless protective eyewear is in place. It is important to wear UV protection when outdoors, and even more so when there is additional reflection-derived UV exposure from snow.

Answered by: James H. Heltzer, MD

Categories: General Eye Health; Eye Diseases

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