June is Cataract Awareness Month!

Cataracts, a clouding of the eye's lens, are a major cause of vision problems, especially for older adults. In fact, over half of Americans develop cataracts by the age of 80. But cataracts aren't exclusive to seniors - they can also occur in younger people and even infants.

The exact cause of cataracts remains a bit of a mystery, though aging is certainly a significant risk factor. There are, however, other potential triggers to be aware of, such as excessive sun exposure (UV rays), certain medical conditions like diabetes or eye inflammation, genetics, developmental issues like maternal rubella during pregnancy, long-term steroid use, eye injuries or diseases, and smoking.

During Cataract Awareness Month in June, the Sonomed Escalon reminds that early detection and treatment of cataracts is critical to preserving sight.

Schedule an eye exam to make sure your eyes are healthy for the future.