The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that cataracts now affect over 24 million Americans over the age of 40, many of whom suffer severe vision loss as a result. Meanwhile, the National Eye Institute forecasts that these numbers will eclipse 50 million over the next three decades. Protecting yourself against vision loss from cataracts requires understanding the disease, including how it develops, factors that lead to its progression, and treatment options that can improve your visual health and quality of life. 

Where Do Cataracts Come From?

Cataracts form when proteins in the lens of the eye break off and clump together, causing the lens to become cloudy and affecting vision. They usually start during middle age and get larger as people get older. Symptoms start mild, but they impact vision more and more as they get larger. 

The American Academy of Ophthalmology likens the progression of cataracts to looking through a foggy or dusty car windshield. Cataracts also impact night vision, creating halos around lights and making it more difficult to see. The eyes become more sensitive to natural and artificial light, and everyday activities like reading and driving become more difficult. 

Managing and Treating Cataracts 

Cataracts can only be corrected through surgery, during which an ophthalmologist removes the natural lens of the eye that has been blurred by fragmented clusters of proteins and replaces it with an artificial lens. Over 50 percent of Americans over the age of 50 either have or need cataracts surgery. Some ways to prevent cataracts include: 

• Going for regular eye exams
• Not smoking 
• Effectively managing overall health
• Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables 
• Limiting alcohol consumption

Primary risk factors for cataracts include age, associated health factors (hypertension, obesity, diabetes, etc.), smoking and drinking history, previous eye surgery, and more. If you’re at risk for cataracts, work with your ophthalmologist to limit exposure and develop a game plan for prevention, management, or treatment. 

*Searing, L. (20, September 2021).The Big Number: 24 million Americans age 40 and older deal with cataracts.