Several possible risk factors for developing cataracts exist, but eye color cataract risk is perhaps one of the most surprising. Evidence suggests that adults with darker, rather than lighter, irises may be at greater risk of developing certain types of cataracts in late middle age.
Increasingly, experts recommend that those with brown or black eyes follow cataract prevention measures more carefully. That’s not to say eye color is the most significant factor in developing cataracts—far from it—but let’s explore how it is thought to change the risk.
Eye Color and Cataracts
Cataracts are the clouding of the eye lenses, a condition that occurs more often as people age. Several studies indicate that the darker your irises, the more likely you are to develop cataracts. In a 2014 review for the International Journal of Ophthalmology, researchers discovered that darker eye color is associated with a greater risk of:
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- Nuclear cataract (center of the lens)
- Cortical cataract (edges of the lens)
- Posterior subcapsular cataract (back of the lens
In two studies reviewed, people with darker eye color were significantly more likely to have a cataract in a follow-up four or five years after the initial assessment.
The idea that those with light eyes develop cataracts at a higher rate likely came about from the fact that people tend to look more at eyes that are bright, blue, or green. When those colors start to get clouded, more people notice.
How Eye Color Affects Cataract Risk
Scientists have not fully explained the association between darker eye color and the incidence of cataracts, and not all agree it’s a factor. However, in the same 2014 review, the authors said they believe the increased quantity of melanin may make the difference. People with darker eye color have a higher level of melanin, the pigment that adds color to skin, eyes, and hair. Melanin in the iris absorbs more photon energy, which creates heat. The association of heat with the development of cataracts is well-known.
Ophthalmologists understand that people who spend a lot of time in the sun without protective eyewear or who work in a profession that generates heat, such as welding, are more likely to get cataracts. Thus, experts suggest that the higher heat absorption in darker eyes may cause cataracts.
This has been a complex hypothesis to test, but scientists have found a similar positive correlation in rats. Researchers found that rats with more pigment in their eyes were also more likely to develop cataracts. This leads some experts to conclude that eye color and cataracts can be linked genetically. Eye color is genetic, and some research suggests that cataracts may also be.
Cataract Prevention Measures
All people should invest the time to care for their eyes, regardless of eye color. Cataracts are a common problem for adults in middle age and older, so prevention is key to minimizing the effects of this slow-forming condition.
For years, the number of Americans with cataracts has been above 20 million. People with certain risk factors, including darker eye color, should take greater precautions earlier in life. Since cataracts can take years to develop, starting sooner can reduce the likelihood of serious vision loss years from now.
All adults can do many things to minimize their risk for cataracts, including:
- Wear sunglasses in the daytime outdoors
- Put on a hat with at least a 3-inch brim
- Stop smoking or never start
- Get regular eye exams, particularly if you notice any vision concerns
If cataracts are accumulating in your eyes, you cannot stop them. You can slow the accumulation, but you must know you have the condition. Visit your ophthalmologist at least once every two years for a comprehensive eye exam, especially after age 60. Early diagnosis can help you to protect your vision and make arrangements for treatment.
Laser Cataract Surgery Options
When your doctor determines that you need cataract surgery, you want to know that the surgery will succeed. Modern approaches to laser cataract surgery allow a surgeon to remove and replace your cataracts with new lenses that often reduce dependence on glasses.
Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center doctors were among the first in Arizona to use the LenSx femtosecond laser during cataract surgery almost four years ago. Before the surgery, your surgeon discusses advanced intraocular lens (IOL) replacement options to correct your vision best. With this procedure, you may be able to use an IOL that corrects conditions such as presbyopia, an age-related vision problem that makes it harder to see items close up. Laser cataract surgery is a safe and effective procedure to dramatically improve eyesight after cataracts.
Eye Color is Just One Factor for Cataracts
Eye color is now considered a genetic trait that affects the risk of developing cataracts. The darker your eyes, the more likely you are to eventually develop this common condition.
By protecting your eyes from the sun and smoke and seeking eye care from a qualified ophthalmologist, you reduce your risk of vision problems related to cataracts. If you develop cataracts, you can rely on the Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center staff and surgeons to use the best laser cataract surgery methods to remove your cataracts and restore your vision.