Prevent Blindness America designated June as Cataract Awareness Month to bring attention to this devastating yet curable disorder. While cataracts are one of the most common eye disorders globally, too few people understand the causes, symptoms and treatment options.
Here are five cataract facts you may find surprising…

1. Cataracts are the leading cause of vision loss in the U.S.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that nearly 30 million Americans have cataracts. That’s more than twice the total number of people with glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration – combined.

2. Babies can be born with cataracts.

Although rare, some babies are born with cataracts, a condition known as congenital cataracts. Infections in the mother during pregnancy, such as rubella, syphilis, chicken pox and cytomegalovirus, can cause the condition, as can some other metabolic problems, diabetes, trauma, inflammation and drug reactions.

3. One out of every six Americans over age 40 has cataracts.

Most people think of cataracts as only affecting the elderly, but symptoms and vision loss from cataracts often start as early as age 40. The likelihood of developing cataracts doubles in your 50’s and doubles again in your 60’s. By the age of 80, more than 50% of Americans have cataracts.

4. Smoking and excessive sunlight add to the risk of developing cataracts.

Smoking doubles the risk of developing nuclear sclerotic cataracts and triples the risk for subscapular cataracts. Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can also promote cataract development, reinforcing the importance of wearing UV-blocking sunglasses outdoors.

5. Surgery is the only effective treatment for cataracts.

Cataracts permanently damage the natural eye lens. The only way to restore a patient’s vision therefor is by surgically replacing the natural lens with an artificial lens. Cataract surgery is one of the most common surgical procedures in the world and is recognized as safe and effective. Traditional and laser-assisted surgical options are available.

If you believe you or someone you love may have cataracts, or if you are dealing with any form of vision loss, contact Thomas Vision Clinic for an evaluation, diagnosis and treatment plan. Call us today at 337-239-2020 to schedule an appointment.