Cataract Awareness Month: How Lifestyle Affects Eye Health 

Every June, Cataract Awareness Month brings attention to one of the most common and treatable causes of vision loss: cataracts. While age is the most well-known risk factor, research consistently shows that lifestyle choices can significantly influence cataract development—and that means there’s a lot you can do to protect your vision, starting today.

At DLV Vision, we’re using this month as an opportunity to highlight the proactive steps you can take to keep your eyes healthy well into your later years.

What Are Cataracts?

A cataract occurs when the normally clear lens of the eye becomes cloudy, causing blurry vision, glare sensitivity, faded colors, and difficulty seeing at night. Cataracts develop slowly and are most often associated with aging, but lifestyle habits can accelerate their formation.

5 Lifestyle Choices That Impact Cataract Risk

Sun Protection and UV Exposure

UV radiation is a leading environmental contributor to cataract formation. Prolonged exposure to sunlight—especially without protective eyewear—can damage the proteins in your eye’s lens.

Protective Tip: Wear sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays and add a wide-brimmed hat for extra shade.

Smoking

Smoking releases harmful toxins that can damage the eye’s lens and reduce the antioxidants that help maintain lens clarity. Smokers are at double the risk of developing cataracts compared to non-smokers.

Protective Tip: If you smoke, consider quitting. Your eyes—and your entire body—will thank you.

Diet and Nutrition

A nutrient-rich diet plays a crucial role in long-term eye health. Antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, lutein, and zeaxanthin help protect the lens from oxidative stress, a known factor in cataract development.

Protective Tip: Fill your plate with leafy greens, citrus fruits, nuts, and colorful vegetables.

Blood Sugar and Diabetes Management

Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to earlier and faster cataract formation due to high glucose levels affecting the eye’s lens.

Protective Tip: Manage your blood sugar levels with regular checkups, proper medication, and a balanced diet.

Regular Eye Exams

Cataracts can progress slowly without symptoms in the early stages. Routine eye exams are essential to catch early changes in lens clarity and monitor overall eye health.

Protective Tip: Adults over 60 should get a comprehensive eye exam every year, or as recommended by your optometrist or ophthalmologist.

Take Action This June

This Cataract Awareness Month, take a moment to reflect on how your lifestyle supports your long-term vision. Whether it’s upgrading your sunglasses, improving your diet, or scheduling that overdue eye exam, every step counts.

If you’re experiencing vision changes or have questions about cataract treatment options, DLV Vision is here to help. We offer advanced surgical solutions and personalized care for patients across California.

Protect Your Vision — Start Today

Your daily choices make a real difference to the health of your eyes.

Whether you’re noticing changes in your vision or simply want to be proactive about cataract prevention, DLV Vision is here to guide you.

Contact us today or schedule your consultation at one of our DLV Vision locations. Serving patients throughout Southern California with leading-edge care and compassionate service.