Long-term environmental lead exposure may increase the risk of developing cataracts according to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Researchers assessed bone lead levels in 795 men aged 60 years and older. Because lead tends to accumulate over time in the skeleton, the researchers measured lead levels in the men’s shin bones. Men with the highest levels of lead were three times more likely to have cataracts than men with the least amount of lead.
Nutrition
A poor diet may deprive the body of amino acids and B vitamins that are essential for eye health. A French study of elderly adults found that lower blood levels of the protein albumin were associated with an increased risk of cataracts.
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