India sees surge in early cataract cases linked to diabetes

Doctors across India report a rapid rise in cataract diagnoses among adults in their 40s and 50s, attributing the trend primarily to uncontrolled diabetes. The country now has over 101 million adults living with diabetes and an additional 136 million classified as pre‑diabetic, according to the International Diabetes Federation. Persistent high blood‑sugar levels are accelerating biochemical changes in the eye's natural lens, causing opacity and vision loss at a much younger age than traditional age‑related cataracts.

Ophthalmologists emphasise that regular comprehensive eye examinations and strict blood‑sugar control are essential to detect early lens changes and schedule timely surgery. They also note widespread misconceptions—such as believing cataract surgery should only be performed once the lens has “matured” or that eye drops can reverse the condition—delay treatment and lead to more complex surgeries. Early intervention can preserve visual acuity and reduce the impact on productivity for working‑age adults who rely heavily on digital screens.

Health experts recommend annual eye checks for anyone over 40, especially those with diabetes, pre‑diabetes, obesity or hypertension, alongside lifestyle measures to manage blood sugar and overall metabolic health.