Are cataracts a significant cause of blindness?

Yes, cataracts are a leading cause of blindness worldwide, primarily affecting older individuals. Cataracts are characterized by the clouding of the natural lens of the eye, which gradually impairs vision. As cataracts progress, the cloudiness worsens, leading to blurred or dimmed vision, loss of color perception, increased glare sensitivity, and decreased visual acuity.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cataracts are the leading cause of reversible blindness, accounting for approximately 51% of global blindness cases. The majority of cataract-related blindness occurs in low- and middle-income countries due to limited access to effective eye care services.

Cataract formation is influenced by several factors, including aging, genetics, nutritional deficiencies, chronic diseases (such as diabetes and hypertension), smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation, and certain medications.

Despite their prevalence, cataracts can be effectively treated through surgical intervention. Cataract surgery is one of the most successful and widely performed surgeries in medicine. It involves removing the clouded natural lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to restore clear vision.

Early detection and management of cataracts are essential to prevent irreversible vision loss. Regular eye examinations, especially for individuals over the age of 50 or those with risk factors, can help identify cataracts in their early stages when they are easier to treat.