Ultraviolet light exposure and cataracts
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation, such as sunlight, is absorbed by the lens of the eye and can lead to the formation of chemicals called free radicals inside the lens. Over time, free radicals may damage the lens, causing cataracts.
People exposed to excessive amounts of sunlight because of their profession (such as agricultural workers), geographic area (such as the northern provinces and territories where UV exposure may be high), or use of tanning booths or sunlamps may be more likely to form cataracts.
It is not known for certain whether reducing UV exposure helps prevent cataracts.
| Author: | Alison Allen Jeannette Curtis | Last Updated: November 20, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Christopher J. Rudnisky, MD, FRCSC - Ophthalmology | |
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