Obesity, as gauged
by a high Body Mass Index (BMI), is known to increase your risk of diabetes,
high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease and a number of other systemic
illnesses. The World Health
Organization (WHO) defines a normal weight with a Body Mass Index (BMI) between
18.5-25 kg/m2, being overweight with a BMI of 25-30 kg/m2,
and obesity as BMI of >30 kg/m2.
Relationship of BMI & Cataracts
A number of studies have identified
several factors associated with an increased risk of age related cataracts
including age, smoking, alcohol consumption and ultraviolet radiation. but any relationship between BMI and
cataracts has been considered somewhat controversial. Recently, researchers
conducted an extensive Meta analysis and statistical review of BMI and
cataracts and found that
being overweight or obese were significantly associated with an increased risk
of cataracts, especially those called “posterior subcapsular cataracts” which
typically cause the greatest vision decline. This relationship was independent
of sex, alcohol intake, diabetes and hypertension.
If you or someone you know
is concerned about their risk of cataracts or has questions about obesity, BMI
and cataracts, they are encouraged to schedule an eye examination at
D’Ambrosio Eye Care by calling us at 800-325-3937, visiting D’Ambrosio Eye Care, Google+
or facebook.com/dambrosioeyecare so that we can help.
D'Ambrosio
Eye Care provides eye care for patients throughout greater Boston, central and
western Massachusetts with office locations at 479 Old Union Turnpike,
Lancaster, Massachusetts 01523, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts
01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331 and 74 Main Street, Gardner,
Massachusetts 01440.
