What causes cataracts and how can they be prevented?
In developed countries like the United States, cataracts are most often related to age. Other factors that can contribute to cataract formation include heredity, certain medications, and previous eye surgery, injury or inflammation. There is also some evidence that the cumulative lifetime exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light as well as cigarette smoking may play a role in the subsequent development of cataracts. However, there is no evidence that the wearing of UV-blocking sunglasses can prevent or slow the progression of cataracts.
