Am I at risk for developing cataracts?

The exact cause for developing cataract is unknown. Cataracts develop in one in four people over the age of 65 and are a common part of the aging process.

There several possible risk factors for cataracts:

• Exposing the eye to intense heat or long-term exposure to UV rays from the sun   
• Diabetes  – diabetics often develop cataracts at an earlier age
• Inflammation in the eye
• Genetics & complications before birth, such as German measles in the mother, can lead to congenital cataracts
• Long-term steroid use
• Eye injuries
• Eye diseases  
• Smoking