As we age, our eyes undergo natural wear and tear, resulting in the clouding of the eye’s natural lens. This clouding is known as cataracts. Cataracts develop when proteins in the eye’s lens form abnormal clumps that gradually get larger, distorting vision. To treat cataracts, cataract surgery is used to remove the damaged lens and replace it with a new crystal clear lens to remove any clouding.
According to a recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, cataract surgery has an unexpected benefit. We know that cataract surgery helps restore clear vision, but what else can cataract surgery do? According to the study Risk of Fractures Following Cataract Surgery in Medicare Beneficiaries, cataract surgery could also help reduce the risk of breaking a hip, something that plagues 350,000 Americans annually.
Visual impairment is a known risk factor for fractures. So naturally, cataract surgery should help reduce the risk of hip fractures, right? Well, lead investigator Dr. Anne L. Coleman of Brown University certainly believes so.
“Seeing helps you navigate a new environment and helps with balance,” said Coleman. “You really need your eyes and vision to help you stay stable.”
Coleman and her colleagues analyzed the effect of cataract surgery on the frequency of hip fractures. Of the more than 1 million Americans over the age of 65 who had cataracts, 1.3% suffered hip fractures. However, the frequency of hip fractures in those individuals who underwent cataract surgery was 16% lower. By statistical analysis, the reduction in risk was even greater, coming in at 23%.
Anne Arundel Eye Center & Dr. Samuel Boles, your Annapolis Eye Doctor
The Anne Arundel Eye Center is a regional leader in the diagnosis and treatment of both glaucoma and cataracts. We provide complete medical eye exams as well as diagnostic surgical eye care. Should you require surgery, your comfort and wellbeing are our top priority, from pre-op testing to post-op care. When you come to the Anne Arundel Eye Center, you can be assured you’re in expert hands.
Board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles has helped restore and preserve thousands of patients’ vision.
To learn more about the Cataract Surgery, please contact Dr. Boles, consultative optometrists Dr. Nathan Frank and Dr. Corinne Casey, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com. Staffed by caring and knowledgeable professionals, our state-of-the-art treatment center is dedicated to making the best eye care accessible to everyone.
For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.
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Source:
Cataract Removal linked to fewer Hip Fractures Harvard Health Publications