RISK FACTORS FOR PRESENILE CATARACT

• Dr.Rashmi G,  
• Dr.Yamini K*

Abstract

Aim: To assess the risk factors causing presenile cataract. Materials and methods: This cross sectional study comprised of 80 patients in a tertiary care centre in kolar district, who underwent comprehensive eye examination with detailed history including systemic diseases and usage of medication .Complete ophthalmological examination included best corrected visual acuity using Snellens visual acuity chart, anterior segment evaluation with slit-lamp biomicroscopy and intraocular pressure measurement using non-contact tonometer. After pupillary dilatation with topical phenylephrine-tropicamide eye drops, cataract was graded with slit lamp examination and posterior segment evaluation was performed using Indirect ophthalmoscopy. Results: The study included total of 80 patients of which 53 were females (66%) and 27 males (34%). Out of 80 patients, 10 (13%) patients had history of tobacco consumption, 6 (8%) had history of ocular trauma, 39 (49%) patients were field workers, 9 (11.3%) patients had used corticosteroids for long duration. 5 (6.3%) patients were diabetic, 2 (2.5%) were known hypertensive, 1 (1.3%) patient was high myopic and 1 (1.3%) had bronchial asthma.3 (3.8%) patients were diagnosed with dermatological diseases and were on treatment. Conclusion: Presenile cataract is most commonly associated with exposure to UV light, steroids usage and consumption of tobacco.So, lifestyle modifications at personal level such as refraining from use of tobacco, exposure to radiation will help in delaying or preventing the early onset of cataract and thereby preventing blindness.

Keywords

Presenile cataract, UV radiation, corticosteroid, Trauma