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Cataracts

A cataract is a clouding of the lens of the eye that affects your vision. Your lens is normally clear. This clouding makes you feel like you are looking through a fogged-up window. Cataracts impact your night vision the most. By age 80, more than 50 percent of Americans either have a cataract or have already had cataract surgery. Cataract removal is usually a safe and effective procedure.

DID YOU KNOW?

  • The risk of cataracts increases as you age.
  • You should be screened for cataracts every two to four years from age 40 until 65 and every one to two years at 65 and older.
  • Diabetes increases your risk of getting cataracts.
  • People who have extensive exposure to sunlight are more likely to develop cataracts.
  • People who have had eye injuries are at a higher risk of developing cataracts.
  • Extended use of corticosteroids may increase risk of developing cataracts.
  • If you smoke, you may also have an increased risk of developing cataracts.

WHO KNEW?

  • Cataracts cannot spread from one eye to the other.
  • By age 65 about 50 percent of Americans have developed some degree of lens clouding.
  • By age 80, more than 50 percent of Americans either have a cataract or have already had cataract surgery.
  • The only effective treatment for cataracts is surgery to remove the clouded lens.
  • About 90 percent of cataract surgery cases yield better vision afterward.
  • Typically age-related cataracts progress slowly over a number of years.
  • Cataracts in younger people and people with diabetes may progress more rapidly.

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FAQs - Cataracts
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