What increases the risk of cataracts at a young age? Diabetes is the main reason, know the detailed information provided by expert doctors

Mumbai: Doctors across the country are finding that the number of cataract patients in their forties and fifties is on the rise, and diabetes is emerging as a leading cause. While the prevalence of diabetes in the country is on the rise, ophthalmologists believe that persistently high blood sugar levels are accelerating changes in the natural lens of the eye, leading to early and rapid development of cataracts. According to the International Diabetes Federation, more than 101 million adults in India currently suffer from diabetes and 136 million have pre-diabetes, and this number is likely to increase significantly in the coming years..(Photo Courtesy – istock)

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Although diabetic retinopathy is one of the more familiar eye complications associated with diabetes, experts say cataracts are also becoming a major concern, especially in people who have had diabetes for a long time or whose diabetes is not well controlled.

Cataracts can no longer be seen as just an age-related disease. As metabolic disorders such as diabetes, obesity and high blood pressure are on the rise, the risk of developing cataracts at a younger age and at a faster rate is also increasing. This makes regular eye examinations and good metabolic control very important to prevent preventable vision loss.

Diabetes is increasingly recognized as a major cause of premature cataracts Dr. from Vashi (Sector 12). Agarwal Eye Hospital Consultant Ophthalmologist Dr. Mubashir Parkar Mohd said. Cataracts appear to increase in patients in their forties and fifties, particularly those whose blood sugar levels are not well controlled. These changes in the lens often develop slowly, but can significantly affect vision during a person’s most active and productive years.

Regular eye exams can help detect early changes in the lens and allow for timely treatment before vision loss becomes more serious. According to doctors, today’s working-age adults feel the effects of cataracts more acutely, as visual disturbances become difficult to ignore during daily tasks involving heavy use of screens, such as computers, smartphones, video calls, and driving. Common symptoms include blurred vision, glare, reduced contrast detection, digital screens. These include difficulty reading and frequently changing glasses.

Dr. Agarwal Eye Hospital has announced free cataract eye check-up till 15th July 2026 for general public, with an aim to create awareness. Registration for this can be done on 95945 86999. “Despite increased awareness, misconceptions about cataract treatment continue to delay timely intervention,” said Dr. Mubashir Parkar Mohd has said.

Many patients still think that cataract surgery should only be done when the cataract is ‘mature’, or they assume that vision loss is a normal part of aging. Some even expect eye drops to cure the condition, which is not clinically accurate. Such a delay can worsen the condition of the cataract, making it more difficult to treat with surgery and can also affect the results of vision improvement.

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Experts recommend that people over the age of 40, especially those suffering from diabetes or other metabolic disorders, undergo regular comprehensive eye examinations. Early diagnosis of cataracts can help to receive timely treatment, preserve vision and reduce long-term effects on quality of life. Today, cataract surgery is a safe and highly effective procedure, and timely treatment is one of the most important factors in achieving the best vision results.