Sunday, June 9, 2019

Cataract Risk from Working Outdoors



Cataracts are a leading cause of decreased vision, especially in seniors. Patients always ask us if it is possible to prevent cataract from forming. There has been a great deal of research that has identified your exposure to solar radiation-or sunlight-as a main risk factor for developing a cataract. This is one of the reasons we urge patients to wear proper UV absorbing eyewear when they are exposed to sunlight. Further, patients who have outdoor occupations and are exposed to long hours of sunlight on a daily basis should be especially aware of the need for UV protection as they perform their daily work activities. A recent review of 15 different cataract studies regarding the relationship between cataract risk and sunlight or solar radiation exposure confirms the increased risk, and reinforces the need to limit sunlight exposure.

If you or someone you know spends a great deal of time outdoors or is exposed to sunlight as part of each day due to your work environment please be sure to wear UV protecting eyewear. If you are concerned about developing a cataract please schedule an eye exam at D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit 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, 865 Merriam Avenue, Suite 119, Leominster, Massachusetts 01453, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331, 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440 and 255 Park Avenue, Suite 606, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609