In a fascinating revelation, studies indicate that, women are 69% more prone to develop cataracts than men. Investigators believe this gender disparity is due to a combination of societal conditions and biological factors. We will further explore these contributory reasons, government interventions, the science behind cataracts, its causes, symptoms, and finally, the available treatment options.
Reasons Behind Increasing Prevalence of Cataract in Women
Two main factors contribute to the higher likelihood of women developing cataracts: gender disparity and physiological aspects.
Gender Disparity: Women have traditionally experienced inadequate access to medical services. This is especially true for facilities that necessitate travel outside their native villages. Cultural norms and family obligations often hinder them from pursuing medical procedures like eye surgeries.
Biological Factors: Post menopause, women experience a decline in oestrogen levels. Some researchers suggest that this lack of oestrogen might be a contributing factor to the increasing occurrences of cataract-related blindness in women. Nonetheless, a definitive correlation between oestrogen levels and cataract prevalence has yet to be established.
Government Intervention for Eye Health
To address the issue, the government introduced an initiative named National Programme for Control of Blindness and Visual Impairment (NPCB&VI) in 1976. A 100% centrally sponsored scheme, its primary goal was to reduce the prevalence of blindness to 0.3% by 2020. NPCB&VI aims to provide universal eye health services along with preventative measures for visual impairment. The main challenge remains in implementing and making these services accessible to all.
Understanding Cataracts
A cataract is a medical condition that occurs within the lens of the human eye. The lens refracts incoming light rays, allowing us to see. In a patient with cataract, this lens becomes cloudy, leading to blurry, hazy or less colourful vision.
Recognizing Symptoms of Cataract
The development of a cataract could be indicated by various symptoms, including:
– Blurry vision
– Seeing double (diplopia)
– Heightened light sensitivity
– Difficulty in seeing well at night
– Requirement for more light while reading
– Perception of bright colours as faded or yellow
Common Causes of Cataract
| Cause | Description |
|---|---|
| Ageing | The most common cause of cataracts is ageing. Around the age of 40, proteins in the lens begin to degrade, making the lens cloudy. |
| Medical Conditions | Various medical conditions like diabetes can increase the risk of developing cataracts. |
| Eye Trauma | An eye injury, previous eye surgery, or radiation treatments can lead to cataract formation. |
| Sun Exposure | Protracted exposure to the sun and damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays can facilitate cataract development. |
| Medications | Certain medications, especially corticosteroids, can promote early cataract formation. |
Treatment Options for Cataract
Surgery is the only viable treatment when vision is completely impaired due to cataracts. However, in cases where vision is not totally blocked, symptoms can be managed with stronger eyeglasses, magnifying lenses, or sunglasses with an anti-glare coating.