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How Air Pollution Contributes to Cataract Development
The human eye is one of the most sensitive organs in the human body. Due to its large and moist surface exposed to the external environment, it is constantly vulnerable to harmful factors from its surroundings. Among these, polluted air holds a significant place. Maybe surprisingly, but air pollution contributes to cataract development.
The harmful effects of polluted outdoor and indoor air on human eyes include irritation and inflammation, as well as more severe diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, uveitis, and retinal disorders.
>> SEE ALSO: How Air Pollution Affects Eye Health?
Cataracts and Their Connection to Polluted Air
Cataracts are a condition characterised by clouding of the lens in the eye, leading to blurred vision and, in severe cases, blindness. While traditionally considered a disease of older individuals, recent years have seen a troubling trend of earlier cataract onset, even in younger people. Studies indicate that rising levels of polluted air are closely linked to this trend.
How Does Polluted Air Accelerate Cataract Development?
Scientific studies highlight three main mechanisms by which polluted air negatively affects eye health and promotes cataract formation:
- PM Particles (PM2.5 and PM10): Fine particles induce oxidative stress, accelerating ageing and increasing the risk of cataract formation. Chronic exposure to high concentrations of PM particles has been proven to contribute to cataract development.
- UV Radiation: Polluted air amplifies the effects of UV rays by reflecting and refracting light on particles, while a depleted ozone layer further reduces natural UV protection.
- Toxic chemicals, including gases such as nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, and carbon dioxide, cause inflammation and tissue damage in the eye, accelerating the process of lens clouding.
Indoor Air Pollution Is a Major Risk to Eye Health
Outdoor pollution is often highlighted, but indoor air pollution is an equally serious problem. People spend most of their day indoors, where poor ventilation allows toxins to build up. These spaces often contain high concentrations of harmful substances.
Without proper ventilation and air purification, pollutants such as PM particles, chemical fumes, and allergens remain trapped. This increases the risk of cataracts, glaucoma, retinal diseases, and other health problems.
>> SEE ALSO: How does air pollution affect our brains?
>> SEE ALSO: Air Pollution Increases Cancer Risk – New Scientific Findings
How Can We Protect Our Eye Health?
Regular eye exams are essential for early detection and timely treatment. UV-protective glasses shield the eyes from harmful sunlight. Avoiding polluted areas further reduces risk.
Indoor air quality also deserves close attention. We spend most of our time indoors. Since 65% of our lives are spent at home, the air we breathe there has the most substantial impact.
>> SEE ALSO: The importance of indoor air quality in our homes
Marquis Intelligence is dedicated to developing efficient ventilation systems with integrated air purification, ensuring safe and healthy air for users.
Clean air is not a luxury but a fundamental human right!
This article is available in the Serbian language: Kako zagađen vazduh doprinosi stvaranju katarakte
Sources:
- https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19031186
- http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bjo.87.7.809
- https://doi.org/10.1159/000027401
- https://english.jagran.com/lifestyle/why-pollution-could-be-a-catalyst-for-early-cataracts-know-from-doctor-10210225
- https://doi.org/10.1034/j.1600-0420.2003.00119.x
This article is part of the “Air Pollution and Health” series, in which Marquis Intelligence, as a socially responsible company, raises awareness about the harmful impact of polluted air on human health.
Document: MC-AP&H-005.25 – How Air Pollution Contributes to Cataract Development.
