Am I at Risk of Getting Cataracts?
What causes cataracts?
Here is a list of the possible causes of cataracts:
| Age-related cataract | The most common type of cataract, caused by the natural changes happening in the lens of your eye as you age.1 It typically starts developing between ages 45 and 50.2 |
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Traumatic cataract
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A cataract caused by a serious eye injury that damages the lens.1 A traumatic cataract might develop soon after the injury or years later.1 |
| Radiation cataract | Certain types of radiation – including ultraviolet rays from the sun and radiation treatments for cancer – can lead to cataracts.1 |
| Paediatric cataract | Some children are born with cataracts or develop them at a later stage.1 This is rare and usually caused by genetics.1 However, children may also get cataracts because of complications during pregnancy, childhood illnesses, eye injuries, radiation or certain medications.1 |
| Secondary cataract | This is not actually a cataract, it’s a condition that some people develop after having cataract surgery.1 Scar tissue forms on the outside of the lens, making it cloudy again.1 Secondary cataracts are a common issue and can be easily fixed using a painless laser treatment.1 |
Cataracts and ageing
Cataracts are a very common eye health issue, affecting an estimated 95 million people around the world.2 Cataracts usually develop due to ageing,1,2 because of natural changes that occur in your eyes over time.1 However, you can get cataracts for reasons other than simply getting older.1
Lifestyle risk factors for cataracts
Some lifestyle habits can also make you more likely to develop cataracts,2 such as:
- Smoking2,3
- Chronic exposure to sunlight (UV rays)1,2,4,5
- Dietary choices6
DID YOU KNOW?
Research shows that people with vegetarian diets have a lower risk of developing cataracts than those who eat meat.6
Medical risk factors for cataracts
Some medical conditions and procedures can increase your risk of cataracts,2 including:
- Type 2 diabetes2,7
- High blood pressure2,8
- Certain eye disorders2
- Previous eye surgery9
Studies also show your risk of developing cataracts may increase if you use certain medications,2 including:
- Statins (medication used to lower cholesterol)10
- Colchicine (gout medication)11
- Antidepressants12
- Eye drops containing steroids13
Always speak to your ophthalmologist or optometrist about the risks and benefits of prescribed medications, and any other concerns you might have.
Understanding cataracts and their effects
What does a cataract look like?
How are cataracts treated?
Am I at risk of cataracts?
Patient stories
Patient resources
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Understanding cataracts and their effects
How are cataracts treated?
Patient stories
Home
What does a cataract look like?
Am I at risk of cataracts?
Patient resources
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