Monday, June 29, 2015

Cataract Risk Increases with Body Mass Index (BMI)

High Body Mass Index (BMI) is an indicator of being overweight or obese and is a well known risk factor for common health problems including diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and orthopedic joint problems. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines a normal weight by a Body Mass Index (BMI) 18.5-25 kg/m2, excess body weight or being overweight as BMI of 25--30 kg/m2, and obesity as BMI of ≥30 kg/m2.



Cataract Risk and Body Mass Index (BMI)
In general, there is some controversy and disagreement as to whether a high BMI predisposes patients to a greater risk of developing cataracts. By conducting an extensive statistical review of studies and performing a careful Meta Analysis researchers found that being overweight or obese were significantly associated with an increased risk of cataracts, especially those called “posterior subcapsular cataracts” which typically cause the greatest vision decline. This relationship was independent of sex, alcohol intake, diabetes and hypertension.

If you or someone you know is concerned about cataracts and weight or body mass index (BMI) please share this information with them and ask them to call Doctor & Associates-203-227-4113, visit Doctor & Associates, Google+ or facebook.com/doctorandassociates to schedule an appointment.

Doctor & Associates is a leading Fairfield County Connecticut eye care practice with offices at 129 Kings Highway North, Westport, Connecticut 06880, 195 Danbury Road, Wilton, Connecticut 06897 and 148 East Avenue, Norwalk, Connecticut 06851.