More than 25 million Americans are estimated to have cataract, a clouding of the eye's lens, which blocks or changes the passage of light into the eye. Prevent Blindness, the nation's oldest eye health and safety nonprofit organization, has declared June as Cataract Awareness Month to educate the public on risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options.
Most cataracts are caused by changes related to aging. However, other factors may cause cataracts to form, including eye infections, some medicines (such as steroids), and injuries. Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light and various diseases, such as diabetes or metabolic disorders, may also contribute to cataracts forming.
Cataract symptoms may include blurred vision, double vision, ghost images, or the sense of a "film" over the eyes; poor night vision; lights seeming too dim for reading or close-up work; eyeglass prescriptions changing often; and a visible milky or yellowish spot that can sometimes be seen in the pupil.
A healthy lifestyle can decrease the risks of developing cataract. Quitting smoking, controlling blood sugar levels, and consistently wearing UV-protecting sunglasses when outdoors can help.
According to the National Eye Institute, eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, particularly dark leafy greens such as spinach, kale, or collard greens is also important for keeping the eyes healthy. Research has also shown there are eye health benefits from eating fish high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, tuna, and halibut.
EyeCare America from the American Academy of Ophthalmology offers the Seniors Program, where qualified seniors, age 65 and older, can obtain a free eye exam and up to one year of follow-up care for any condition diagnosed during the initial exam.
For free information on cataract, readers may call Prevent Blindness at 800-331-2020 or visit http://www.preventblindness.org/cataract. For a listing of vision care financial assistance programs in English or Spanish, readers may visit http://www.preventblindness.org/vision-care-financial-assistance-information.
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