The 21st century has brought humanity a longer and healthier life. However, elderly diseases have also increased.

Dr. Gülşah Tezcan said, “While the frequency of cataracts is 35% on average at the age of 60, over 80% cataracts are seen in the 80s. It is estimated that nearly 100 million people worldwide have decreased vision due to cataracts. The main cause of cataracts is aging, but in some cases cataracts are seen at an earlier age. These conditions include eye trauma, diabetes, some eye diseases such as uveitis (inflammation of the eye), prolonged use of cortisone-containing drugs, not protecting the eyes from the sun, and not paying attention to nutrition. The only treatment is a painless surgery that takes about 20 minutes. As in the world, the incidence of cataracts is increasing in our country as the population ages.” On the other hand it is possible to take some measures to prevent cataract and slow its progression.

• Protecting from the sun by wearing UV-coated glasses or sunglasses.
• Being careful about cortisone use and avoiding it as much as possible.
• Keeping blood sugar levels at a low level for diabetics.
• Eating foods rich in vitamin A, vitamin C and carotenoids (bell peppers, broccoli, cantaloupe, carrots, oranges, spinach, tomatoes, watermelon).
• Not smoking and not drinking too much alcohol.

September 2024