According to a semi-recent study in Sweden, by quitting smoking, people who smoke at least 15 cigarettes a day can lower the risk for cataracts over the course of two decades.
“Smoking cessation may decrease the risk of cataract, but the risk among former smokers persists for decades,” explains Dr. Birgitta Ejdervik Lindblad. “Since smoking is also related to other [eye] diseases, strategies to prevent smoking and promote smoking cessation are important, and eye care professionals should encourage people to stop smoking.”
The study, which was published in an online edition of JAMA Ophthalmology in 2014, tracked a group of Swedish men between the ages of 45 and 79 and examined the link between quitting smoking and more than 5,700 cases of cataract removal over a 12-year period. According to researchers, men who smoked 15 cigarettes or more per day had a 42% higher risk of cataracts than men who never smoked. However, by quitting smoking, individuals can greatly reduce that risk over time. Researchers found that the risk for cataracts decreased by 21% after 20 years of not smoking.
What Are Some Other Risk Factors for Cataracts?
As we age, the proteins in the eye’s lens begin to clump together and cloud a small area. This is how a cataract forms. But why does it form? Well, according to researchers, there can be several causes: for starters, old age. If we live long enough, we will all develop cataracts at some point in our lives. Other risk factors include smoking, diabetes, eye injury, UV rays, and more.
Cataract Treatment in Maryland
The Anne Arundel Eye Center (AAEC) is a regional leader in the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma and cataracts. A consultation with board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles will help guide you through the treatment process and help you determine when cataract surgery makes the most sense for you. And when that time comes, you want to make sure you are in good hands.
Voted one of Annapolis’ Top Docs 2013-2014, a peer survey conducted by What’s Up? Magazine, Dr. Boles utilizes the LenSx® Laser, the most technologically advanced option for cataract patients today, to create a cataract surgery that’s 100% unique to each patient. Click Here to learn more.
If you have any questions about Cataract Treatment or wish to schedule an appointment with Anne Arundel Eye Center (AAEC), please contact Board Certified Ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, Dr. Kathryn Gurganus Turner, and the eye care specialists here at AAEC by calling 410-224-2010 or Click Here to fill out our contact form.
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For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.