DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Ophthalmologic Disease

Age-Related Cataracts

MODERATE

A clouding of the normally clear lens of the eye, most commonly due to aging. Leading cause of vision loss worldwide. Develops gradually and affects both eyes, usually one more than the other.

Global Affected

95.0M

Countries

22

Symptoms

Clouded, blurred, or dim vision
Increasing difficulty with vision at night
Sensitivity to light and glare
Need for brighter light for reading
Seeing 'halos' around lights
Fading or yellowing of colors
Double vision in one eye
Frequent prescription changes

Treatment Options

Stronger eyeglasses (early)
Magnifying lenses
Sunglasses with anti-glare
Cataract surgery (phacoemulsification)
Intraocular lens (IOL) implantation
Femtosecond laser-assisted surgery
Monovision correction

Risk Factors

1Age (over 60)
2Diabetes
3Excessive sun exposure
4Smoking
5Obesity
6High blood pressure
7Previous eye injury/surgery
8Prolonged corticosteroid use
9Family history

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Visual acuity test
  • 2Slit-lamp examination
  • 3Retinal exam (dilated)
  • 4Tonometry (eye pressure)
  • 5Refraction test
  • 6Contrast sensitivity testing

Prognosis

Excellent with surgery. Vision restored to near-normal in 95%+ of cases. Low complication rate. One of the most successful surgical procedures. Quality of life significantly improved.

Prevention

  • Regular eye exams
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Manage diabetes
  • Don't smoke
  • Maintain healthy weight
  • Limit alcohol
  • Balanced diet rich in antioxidants

Research Status

Cataract surgery is most commonly performed surgery worldwide with excellent outcomes. Phacoemulsification is standard technique. Femtosecond laser-assisted surgery available. Advanced IOLs (multifocal, toric) reduce need for glasses. Dropless cataract surgery emerging.

Affected Countries

United StatesUnited KingdomCanadaAustraliaGermanyFranceItalySpainJapanBrazilMexicoIndiaChinaRussiaSwedenNetherlandsNorwayFinlandDenmarkNigeriaSouth AfricaEgypt

Sources

  • https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cataracts
  • https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
  • https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.