Cataract is a cloudiness or opacity in the normally transparent crystalline lens of the eye. This cloudiness can cause a decrease in vision and may lead to eventual blindness. Globally, cataract has remained the major cause of blindness over the years. Approximately 45 million people are blind worldwide, out of which cataract accounts for 17.6 million (39%) cases. South East Asian region contributes to 50-80% of all blindness.
Data from the rapid assessment during the national blindness survey (2014-2015) put the prevalence of blindness as 7% in individuals above 50 years of age in India. The prevalence of blindness was reported to be 8% in the age group of more than 50 years as per the National blindness survey. Cataract accounts for 62.6% of all blindness affecting 9-12 million bilaterally blind persons. In India, an estimated 20 lakhs new cases of cataract are being added to the…
