Introduction Dermatologists have long warned patients of the danger of excessive sun exposure to their skin. Scientific research has clearly linked several eye diseases to damage from UV light. Theses diseased include cataracts, macular degeneration, snow-blindness, and skin cancer, to name a few. Cataracts One of the most well-known eye diseases is cataracts. The normal lens allows light to reach the retina for clear vision.
Cataracts reduce vision, just as a dirty windshield diminishes a driver's view of the road.
The number one cause of blindness in the world is cataracts. Although factors such as nutrition and genetics play a role in cataract formation, UV exposure is primarily responsible. The clouding of the lens is irreversible, and once the cataracts begin to impair daily activities, the only treatment available is surgical removal. The good news is that cataract surgery is relatively uncomplicated, and has a very high success rate. In recent years, the public has become increasingly aware of this ocular disease that goes by many different names.