Ten causes of cataracts

There are many reasons that one could develop a cataract. The following infographic displays the most common reasons that people get cataracts.

Advancing age

Age is the most common cause of developing cataracts. If you live long enough, you will develop a cataract.

Smoking

Smoking is not just bad for your overall health. It can also affect your eyes, including the development of cataracts.

Diabetes

As an individual with diabetes, your eye health is subject to more eye diseases than others, including cataracts.

UV radiation from the sun

Excessive ultraviolet radiation from the sun can create the onset of cataracts. To decrease this risk, wear sunglasses or brimmed hats to protect your eyes from this harmful radiation.

Obesity

Similar to diabetes, obesity can also cause an increased risk of the development of cataracts. Eating a well-balanced diet and exercising regularly can decrease this risk.

Prolonged use of corticosteroids

The use of steroids for long periods of time can increase your risk of cataracts.

Previous eye injury

If you have suffered an eye injury in the past, the damage to the eye may increase the risk of developing a cataract.

Family history

If anyone in your family has had cataracts, this could mean you have the potential to develop a cataract.

Previous eye surgery

Just like previous eye injury, a previous eye surgery could also increase the chance of you developing a cataract.

High alcohol consumption

High alcohol consumption does just not have negative affects to your body and internal organs, but it can also affect your eyesight, including the development of cataracts.

Although you cannot prevent the most common cause of cataracts, which is ageing, you can take precautionary steps for the other causes. For example, quitting smoking, drinking alcohol in moderation, and living an overall healthy lifestyle can decrease the chance of getting a cataract.