New Delhi, 27th February 2025 – Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness among people over the age of 50, according to the National Blindness and Visual Impairment Survey India (2015-19). They account for 66.2% of blindness cases and over 70% of moderate visual impairments in this age group. While these numbers are concerning, the good news is that cataracts don’t have to result in permanent vision loss—early detection through regular eye exams is the key.
Cataracts form when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy due to protein buildup. Imagine the lens as a camera. When it’s clear, images are sharp and bright. But as cataracts form, they cause blurry or foggy vision, faded colors, and difficulty seeing at night. Cataracts are most commonly caused by aging, but they can also develop due to diabetes, excessive sun exposure, smoking, or the use of certain medications. Since cataracts develop gradually, many people don’t realize they have them until significant vision loss has occurred.
Dr. Rishi Raj Borah, Country Director, Orbis(India), stressed the importance of timely intervention: “Cataracts are one of the most common and preventable causes of vision loss. Regular eye exams are critical because they allow us to catch the condition in its early stages, often before the patient notices any symptoms. Early detection doesn’t just preserve vision—it can also improve a patient’s quality of life by preventing unnecessary complications and providing treatment options before surgery is needed.”
The early symptoms of cataracts include blurry vision, trouble seeing at night, colors that appear faded, and double vision in one eye. If you notice any of these symptoms, scheduling an eye exam is essential. Early detection allows for options like updated glasses, anti-glare lenses, or lifestyle changes, such as wearing sunglasses, to manage cataracts before they require surgery.
Regular eye exams aren’t just about treating cataracts—they’re about preserving independence and quality of life. By staying ahead of the condition, patients can avoid the frustration of significant vision loss and continue enjoying their everyday activities without limitations. If your world is starting to seem a little foggy, don’t wait. A simple eye exam could be the first step to protecting your vision for years to come.