Cataract is one of the eye disorders that occur with aging and cause almost complete closure of vision in the later stages. Yes, it is one of the diseases caused by old age, but the way you live and your preferences can be a direct factor in the development of cataracts and can cause the process to progress rapidly. Smoking is one of the examples of this issue. Let’s say at the beginning what we will say at the end. Smoking increases the risk of cataracts. Let’s examine the evaluations of experts through scientific research and open the subject a little more.

How Much Does Smoking Increase Cataract Risk?

In the scientific research published on Pubmed, 1966 studies conducted between 2004 and 1966 were examined and the results were categorised. Let’s list the main findings obtained according to this study.

The Effect of Smoking on Cataracts According to Main Findings

The first evaluation was made on nuclear cataract. It was observed that the risk of developing nuclear cataract increased by 60% in smokers.
In the second evaluation, the relationship between cortical cataract and smoking was analysed. It was concluded that smoking had less effect on the development of cortical cataract. It was concluded that smoking increased the risk of cortical cataract by 23%.

Continued Smoking Status

According to the same studies, the frequency of smoking was also found to be effective in the results. In the studies, it was revealed that the risk of cataract development increases as the amount of cigarettes smoked increases. It has been revealed that the risk increases up to 100% in people who consume more than 20 cigarettes a day.

What is the situation for smokers who quit?

The research also evaluates the process for patients who quit smoking. It was found that people who quit smoking had a reduced risk of cataracts against smokers. Although quitting smoking leads to a considerable reduction in risk, it has been found that the risk is lower in never smokers.

Let’s Make an Inference

Based on all these data, we can briefly summarise the effect of smoking on cataract formation.
Research shows that smoking is particularly effective on the formation of nuclear cataracts. It causes a serious increase in risk.
The more cigarettes smoked, the higher the risk.
Although quitting smoking is effective in reducing the risk, the risk is not as low as those who have never smoked.

Source