Vigorous exercise can lead to vision loss in men

A new study suggests that vigorous physical activity may increase the risk for vision loss. The finding has surprised and puzzled researchers.

Korean researchers evaluated physical activity using questionnaires in 211,960 men and women ages 45 to 79 in 2002 and 2003.

Subsequently they followed-up the diagnoses of age-related macular degeneration, from 2009 to 2013.

Macular degeneration is a progressive deterioration of the central area of the retina and is the leading cause of vision loss in the elder population.

The researchers found that exercising vigorously 5 or more days a week was associated with a 54% increased risk of macular degeneration in men. They did not find the association in women.

The authors acknowledge that the study depends partly on self-reports, which are not always reliable, and that it is an observational study that does not prove cause and effect.

Until the research is more conclusive it may be a prudent advice to avoid vigorous exercises!