A: Advanced age is the strongest risk factor for AMD, typically affecting individuals over fifty. AMD also exhibits a genetic link. Increased likelihood of developing the disease occurs in individuals with an afflicted immediate family member. Another demographic risk factor is gender. Females are more likely to develop AMD, which may be due to their elongated life expectancy, meaning females spend more time in advanced age. Race is also a factor. Caucasians are most likely to develop the disease, perhaps due to the association with lighter eye pigmentation. Lifestyle habits known to impact retinal oxygen flow are also risk factors. Such habits include smoking, high-glycemic diets, and inactivity.