Scientists are warning that people who smoke are danger damaging their eyes. The scientists say smokers are two times more likely to lose their vision than non-smokers. Everyone knows that smoking can damage the lungs and heart, but not many people know it could damage the eyesight. The scientists are the Association of Optometrists (AOP) the United Kingdom. The AOP has started a campaign to raise awareness the danger smoking to the eyes. The campaign is called "Stub it ". The word "stub" means put a cigarette pushing the end against something hard; "stub it out" is saying, "stop smoking". The AOP said only one five people thinks smoking can damage the eyes.
The AOP explained why smoking is so harmful to the eyes. Cigarette smoke gets the eyes and causes or worsens a number different eye problems. Cigarette smoke contains toxic chemicals that can irritate and damage the eyes. Smoke contains tiny pieces metals like lead and copper. These can get the eyes and lead to cataracts - a condition that causes the eye lens to become cloudy. People cataracts usually need an operation to restore their sight. Smoke can also increase the chance worsening sight problems people with diabetes. The AOP said smokers are also three times more likely to damage the eyes' muscles. The AOP has encouraged smokers to quit
