Cataracts Awareness Month 2025 — What It Is? Know Its Causes, Preventions, And More

(By Dr. Arup Bhaumik)

June is Cataract Awareness Month – a time to spotlight one of the most common yet curable causes of vision loss worldwide.

As an ophthalmologist, I see countless patients each year who are unaware that their vision loss is due to something entirely treatable — cataract. While cataracts are a natural part of aging, timely awareness and early intervention can preserve clear vision and greatly enhance quality of life.

What Is Cataract?

A cataract is the clouding of the eye’s natural lens, which sits just behind the iris. In a healthy eye, this lens focuses light onto the retina, allowing us to see clearly. Over time, due to aging or other factors, this lens may become cloudy, leading to blurred or dimmed vision.

Global Impact Of Cataract

Cataracts remain the leading cause of blindness globally. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cataracts account for nearly 51% of world blindness, affecting over 65 million people. 

How Cataracts Affect Vision:

Cataracts develop slowly and symptoms may be subtle at first. However, over time they significantly interfere with daily life:

• Blurred or foggy vision
• Increased sensitivity to light or glare
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Colors appear faded or yellow
• Frequent changes in glasses prescription
• Seeing halos around lights

Causes And Prevention

While aging is the primary cause, other risk factors include:

• Diabetes
• Prolonged exposure to UV rays
• Smoking and alcohol consumption
• Long-term use of corticosteroids
• Eye injuries

Prevention Tips: Wear UV-protective sunglasses, manage systemic conditions like diabetes, quit smoking, eat antioxidant-rich foods (green leafy vegetables, fruits), and have regular eye exams after the age of 40.

How Is Cataract Treated?

The only effective treatment for cataract is surgical removal of the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial lens. The most advanced and widely used technique today is Phacoemulsification (Phaco).

The Case For Early Surgery

At Disha Eye Hospitals, nearly 50% of our cataract patients now present with 6/12 or better vision even before surgery, indicating a growing awareness and preference for early intervention.

Benefits Of Early Cataract Surgery Include:

• Better visual outcomes
• Lower risk of complications
• Earlier detection if others like Glaucoma, Retina onset.
• Faster recovery and Improved quality of life
• Take-Home Message

Cataracts are not something to be feared. They are treatable, and the earlier they are detected and managed, the better your vision outcomes. If you experience early symptoms, consult an eye specialist promptly. Remember, restoring clear vision is just one safe surgery away.

Dr. Arup Bhaumik is Senior Consultant Ophthalmologist, Cataract Services at Disha Eye Hospitals

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]