Cataract Facts: June National Cataract Awareness Month 2018

June is National Cataract Awareness Month. Cataract is a common eye problem among those who are aging.

The Facts - Cataract Awareness

• Leading Cause of Blindness - Cataracts are a leading cause of blindness in America.
• Early Detection & Treatment - Early detection and treatment of cataract increases the probability of successful vision as you move forward with a healthy approach.
• 24 Million - There are approximately 24 million American's over the age of 40, who are affected by cataracts
• Blindness - If cataract is left unattended it can result in blindness of the eye(s) affected.
• Regular Checkups - Because cataract can progress slowly, the change in vision is often not noticed by the person affected; another reason it's important to get regular eye check-ups to keep a watch for changes and in particular the build up of cataracts in both or one eye.
• Not Just For Seniors - While cataracts are more common among seniors, they can affect children, young adults, and adults. Most seniors cataract is an "Age Related Cataract" as opposed to those who may get cataract from a hereditary disease, as a side effect of a chronic disease, and other possible ways in which age is not necessarily a factor.

Reduce the Risk of Cataract

While there is no proven way for those who have age related cataract, there are certain lifestyles that can help deter eye problems and diseases. Like most every disease and health issue known to mankind, an overall healthy lifestyle helps to deter problems as we age.

Tips for Good Eye Health & Cataract Awareness

1. Eat the Right Foods - There are certain foods that are known to help prevent eye disease and provide optimum eye health via nutrition.
2. Do Not Smoke - Smoking is known risk for cataract; with smokers being twice as likely to form cataracts and the more they smoke the higher their risk. However, stopping smoking can reduce your risk of cataract nearly to the point that it would be as a non-smoker of the same age.
3. UV Rays - Studies (see cited works) state that ultra-violet rays are associated with cataract growth and eye damage. Protect your eyes with UVA & UVB sun blocking glasses and a hat to keep the rays from causing damage to your eyes.
4. Regular Eye Checks - It is extremely important to have an annual eye exam; more often if you have certain diseases or ongoing medical issues that warrant more frequent check-ups. Prevent Blindness America can help you find free screenings for eye exams in your area (21 states & DC).
5. Free Cataract Surgery - Mission Cataract USA offers free cataract eye surgery for those who qualify. You can visit their website here or give them a call (800-343-7265).

Senior Living Experts wants to make sure that you are well versed on cataract awareness in order to make your world healthier and even better to see as you age.Cited Works:American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO)Photo by TobiasD / PixabayYour Sight Matters WebsiteCDC