August 22, 2001

Cataract Awareness Month

BINGHAMTON, NY - People between the ages of 52 and 64 have a 50 percent chance of having a cataract and, by age 75, almost everyone has a cataract. As a result, approximately 50 percent of people between the age of 75 and 85 have lost some vision. August 2001 is Cataract Awareness Month and a good time for older New Yorkers to think about scheduling eye and vision examinations, states Charles Wolford, director of the Broome County Health Department.

A cataract is a cloudy or hazy area in the clear lens of the eye. The lens is located behind the iris, the colored portion of the eye, and the pupil, the dark center of the eye. As this hazy area thickens, it prevents light rays from passing through the lens and focusing on the retina. The retina is the light sensitive tissue lining the back of the eye.

Mr. Wolford warns that as a cataract develops, you may experience blurred vision; sensitivity to light and glare, especially in bright sunlight or while driving at night; increased nearsightedness, requiring frequent changes in your eyeglass prescription; or, distortion in either eye.

There are three types of cataracts: nuclear, cortical and subcapsular, states Mr. Wolford. The most common type of cataract and the one associated with aging is the nuclear cataract, while many people with diabetes develop cortical cataracts. A subcapsular cataract is also found in people with diabetes or nearsightedness, adults with hereditary eye disorders, and in people taking steroids.

Recent studies have shown that people who live in high altitudes or those who spend a lot of time in the sun will develop cataracts earlier than others, advises Mr. Wolford. Healthcare providers now recommend wearing sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat to lessen the eyes' exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light.

Once cataracts form, there are no medications, eye drops, exercises or glasses that will cause them to disappear. Surgery is the only way to remove a cataract. Mr. Wolford advises that surgery is safe and effective and, if you are having problem with your vision, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately.

For more information on cataracts, contact your healthcare provider or the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

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