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What is the relationship between type 2 diabetes and cataracts?

What is the relationship between type 2 diabetes and cataracts?

14 November 2024

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Type 2 diabetes is a chronic metabolic disease that affects the way the body processes glucose, which can have multiple repercussions on the overall health of people who suffer from it. One of the less discussed, but significant, complications of type 2 diabetes is cataracts. These are the opacification of the crystalline lens - the natural lens of the eye - which can cause blurred vision and, if left untreated, can lead to reversible blindness.

Type 2 diabetes is characterized by elevated blood glucose levels, which can cause damage to blood vessels and nerves over time. This damage also extends to the tissues of the eye, including the lens. Under normal conditions, the lens of the eye maintains its transparency thanks to a balance of fluids and proteins. However, in people with diabetes, high glucose levels can change this dynamic, causing the accumulation of sorbitol and fructose in the lens. This process leads to increased opacity of the lens and, eventually, to the formation of cataracts.

The risk of developing cataracts is significantly higher in people with type 2 diabetes compared to those without the disease. Studies have shown that diabetics are more likely to experience cataracts at a younger age. This highlights the importance of proper control of blood glucose levels, as keeping them within a healthy range can help reduce the risk of developing this eye complication.

In addition to hyperglycemia, other factors related to type 2 diabetes can also contribute to the risk of cataracts. Obesity, which is often associated with this form of diabetes, is another risk factor for the development of cataracts. Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress that accompany diabetes can also exacerbate eye deterioration. Therefore, addressing not only diabetes, but also additional risk factors, is crucial to preserving eye health.

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