Most cataracts are related to aging and by the age of 80, more than half of all Americans either have a cataract or have had cataract surgery. There can be other causes such as diabetes, eye injury, radiation and surgery. Here are 3 things to know:
- Cataracts develop with age and affect 30% of Americans.
- They produce a clouding of the lens causing it to slowly change to a yellowish/brownish color. (Symptoms include: blurred images, faded colors, glare, poor night vision and frequent prescription changes.) They are the #1 cause of blindness world wide even though cataract removal surgery is routine in the U.S.
- A recent study in the U.K. found that genetic factors were responsible for 35% of the cataract progression and 65% was environmental factors such as diet. A diet rich in Vitamin C was found to inhibit cataract progression in women by 33% (lower risk). The foods that are highest in Vitamin C are: bell peppers, dark leafy greens, kiwifruit, broccoli, citrus fruits, tomatoes, peas and papayas.
Do you think you might have cataracts? Cataracts are diagnosed during a routine comprehensive eye exam. So be sure to make your appointment with me to check it out.
