Cataracts, the world's leading cause of blindness, aren't restricted to persons 65 years of age or older, medical experts at the American Academy of Ophthalmology say.
An academy spokesman says any person experiencing the symptoms of cataract development -- including blurred vision, sensitivity to light and double vision -- should seek treatment immediately. Further, examinations for cataracts should be a matter of course for everyone over 65.
At least 50 percent of Americans over the age of 50 have developed age-related cataracts, the spokesman says. And by the age of 75, that figure reaches 70 percent.
While cataracts are a natural part of the aging process, a healthy lifestyle can have a protective effect. Research has shown that Vitamin C, taken regularly, as well as estrogen replacement therapy, may delay cataract formation. Wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes from harmful UV light may also slow down the growth of cataracts. Additionally, heavy smokers are three times as likely to develop cataracts as those who don't smoke, the spokesman says.
