Environmental toxins influence incidence of cataract – DR.A.K.GROVER
Environmental toxins influence incidence of cataract: New technology promises enhanced vision clarity
- Extended Range of Vision (ERV) Intraocular lenses (IOLs), the latest technological revolution in ophthalmology is allowing increasing number of cataract patients to enjoy improved quality of life.
New Delhi, 21st January 2018: With an increasing number of cataract patients opting to work and lead active lifestyles, cataract and its corrective surgery is often seen as a major hindrance to normal life. But, do you know that the regular emission of biomass fuel and exposure to smoke can result in trachoma or even cataract?
An increasing number of studies and toxicological evidence that burning of solid fossil fuels is associated with cataract formation. Harmful environmental toxic compounds cause “ocular irritation” or irritation in the eyes. Unrefined cooking oil when burned under high temperature emits benzene andformaldehyde. The toxic air results in trachoma, glaucoma and cataract.
Reflecting on the viable and effective technological alternatives now available for cataract patients, Dr. A.K Grover, Founder of Vision Eye care (New Delhi) and Chairman of Ophthalmology department at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi says “In recent times, technological advancement made significant improvement making it possible for patients to resume a completely normal life post cataract surgery with nearly perfect vision. Previously through conventional multifocal lenses, the quality of vision would get reduced due to division of light. These lenses reportedly caused high incidences of halos and glare, which are bright rings and sharp light which interferes with vision, and the frequent need of wearing glasses did not completely fulfill the purpose of getting the lenses implanted. On the other hand, a new technology ERV IOL gives a perfect balance of contrast, light, near, far and even intermediate vision.”
Intraocular lenses (IOLs) replace the natural eye lenses after cataract surgery for enhanced vision. Commended as the next revolution in eye care, this U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved technology reportedly provides seamless day and night vision for all near to far distances without causing any discomfort while adjusting eyes. The ERV IOLs also lower the incidence of Halos & glare which usually hampers a person’s ability to drive at night.
Citing one of his patient’s experiences, Dr. A.K Grover shares how “ERV lenses are beneficial for cataract patients. A 60-year old lady doctor presented to us with complaints of diminished vision for distance and difficulty in near work. She is a practicing dermatologist and her main problem was the inability to read small prints in books and newspapers. She was unable to do her clinical work without glasses. She was very keen to get rid of glasses. Biometry was done in both of her eyes and ERV IOLs was implanted. She is a quite content with the crystal clear quality of vision. She can now do her house work as well as drive without glasses. She is also able to do her clinical work including dermatology surgical procedures. we have managed to ensure good vision over a continuous range of distances including far, intermediate and near, and increased spectacle independence.”
Doctors are constantly underlining the utter need for awareness around eye care. Regular checkups, especially for diabetic patients are imperative. ERV IOL promises to be the next revolution in eye care and providing respite from eye ailments. Toxic compounds emitted from fuels are widespread in India. Prevention of cataract is thus possible with healthy and adopting eco-friendly lifestyles.