At What Age Do People Start Getting Cataracts?
Cataracts are a common eye condition that affects millions of people worldwide. In Alberta alone, over 35,000 cataract surgery procedures will be performed each year. While age is a significant factor in the development of cataracts, it is important to understand when this condition typically begins to affect individuals. In this article, we will explore the age at which people commonly start getting cataracts and the risk factors associated with their development.
Understanding Cataracts
Before answering the question of the age at which cataracts commonly develop, let's first understand what cataracts are. A cataract is a clouding of the eye's natural lens, which is located behind the iris and the pupil. This clouding causes vision problems, such as blurriness, increased glare at night, decreased colour perception, and difficulty seeing in low light. Cataracts often progress slowly over many years or decades, and their impact on vision can vary from person to person.
Age and Cataracts
Age is the most significant risk factor for developing cataracts. In most people, cataracts do not occur in childhood or early adulthood. Although, it is possible to develop and require surgery for cataracts as a child. Instead, they tend to develop as people get older. The age at which cataracts start to affect individuals varies, but the majority of cases occur in individuals over the age of 40. However, the risk of developing cataracts increases significantly as people get older, with the greatest prevalence occurring in those over 60.
According to the National Eye Institute (NEI), by the age of 80, more than half of all Americans will either have a cataract or have undergone cataract surgery. This statistic highlights the strong correlation between age and cataract development.
Source: https://www.nei.nih.gov
Risk Factors Associated With Cataracts
While age is the primary factor, several other risk factors can contribute to the development of cataracts at a younger age or accelerate their progression:
Ultraviolet (UV) Exposure: Prolonged exposure to UV rays from the sun can increase the risk of cataracts. Protecting your eyes with sunglasses that block UVA & UVB rays is essential, especially in sunny environments.
Smoking: Smoking cigarettes is associated with an increased risk of cataracts. Quitting smoking can help reduce this risk. One analysis study out of the UK showed that smoking marijuana does not increase your risk of developing cataracts but has been shown in studies to accelerate their development.
Diabetes: People with diabetes (Type 1 and Type 2) are at a higher risk of developing cataracts at a younger age. Estimates show that people under age 65 are about four times more likely to develop cataracts. Proper diabetes management is crucial in reducing this risk.
Family History: Genetics can also play a role in cataract development. You may be at a higher risk if you have a family history of cataracts.
Eye Trauma: Eye injuries or surgeries, such as previous eye surgeries or injuries, can increase the likelihood of developing cataracts. Sometimes, this may be within months of an injury or surgery.
Medications: Some medications, like corticosteroids, may contribute to cataract formation when used over extended periods. These medications tend to cause a particular type of cataract called a Posterior Subcapsular Cataract or PSC. You may be on a corticosteroid if you have asthma inhalers, arthritis, skin conditions, uveitis/iritis or autoimmune conditions.
Time Will Tell.
In summary, cataracts are primarily an age-related eye condition that commonly starts showing up in individuals over 40, with a higher prevalence in those over 60. While age is the most significant risk factor, other factors such as UV exposure, smoking, diabetes, family history, eye trauma, and certain medications can contribute to cataract development at a younger age or accelerate their progression.
Routine comprehensive eye exams with an optometrist are crucial for early detection and management of cataracts. If you or a loved one are experiencing vision changes, consult an eye care professional to determine the best course of action, which may include cataract surgery to restore clear vision and improve the overall quality of life. If you think you might have cataracts or have a family history of cataracts, book an eye exam at Helio Optometry today. Our eye doctors would be happy to help you take control of the situation.
Disclaimer: The content provided in this blog post by Helio Optometry eye care clinic in Edmonton is intended solely for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment by a Licensed Optometrist. No doctor/patient relationship is established through the use of this blog. The information and resources presented are not meant to endorse or recommend any particular medical treatment. Readers must consult with their own healthcare provider regarding their health concerns. Helio Optometry and its optometrists do not assume any liability for the information contained herein nor for any errors or omissions. Use of the blog's content is at the user's own risk, and users are encouraged to make informed decisions about their health care based on consultations with qualified professionals.
