Dr. Mahipal Singh Sachdev, Chairman & Medical Director, Centre For Sight Group of Eye Hospitals
Cataract awareness Month – June 2025
Cataract remains one of the leading causes of blindness globally, yet it is among the most treatable eye conditions when detected early. In India, the burden of cataract-related vision loss is especially high due to limited awareness, delayed diagnosis, and socioeconomic barriers. As a nation that houses one-sixth of the world’s population, it is vital that we prioritize eye health and increase public education around cataracts—especially as the elderly population continues to grow.
A cataract is the clouding of the eye’s natural lens, leading to blurry vision, sensitivity to light, difficulty in night vision, and in advanced cases, complete vision loss. While aging is the most common risk factor, cataracts can also be caused by diabetes, smoking, prolonged exposure to UV rays, trauma, and prolonged use of certain medications like steroids. Sadly, many people still consider cataract-induced vision changes to be a “normal” part of aging and delay treatment until significant vision impairment occurs.
Busting common myths surrounding Cataract
Cataracts continue to be the leading cause of blindness in India, responsible for over 66% of cases, yet many people delay surgery due to persistent myths and fears. It’s crucial to separate fact from fiction and make informed decisions. A common misconception is that cataracts only affect the elderly. While aging is a major factor, cataracts can also result from diabetes, steroid use, UV exposure, trauma, and can even occur in children. Another widespread myth is that eye drops, diet, or exercises can cure cataracts—scientific evidence confirms that surgery is the only effective treatment.
Waiting until vision is severely impaired before opting for surgery is also misguided; early intervention leads to better outcomes and quicker recovery. Contrary to fears, cataract surgery is among the safest procedures, performed under local anesthesia with minimal discomfort and rapid healing. Finally, modern cataract surgery doesn’t necessarily mean lifelong dependence on glasses.
Advanced intraocular lenses (IOLs), including extended-depth-of-focus (EDOF) lenses, offer excellent vision across distances and reduce reliance on spectacles. Dispelling these outdated beliefs is key to encouraging timely treatment. With today’s technology, cataract surgery offers a safe, effective path to restoring clear, vibrant vision—so seek professional advice at the first sign of trouble.
Awareness is the key
Raising awareness is the first crucial step in addressing this challenge. People need to understand that cataracts are not only treatable but that modern advancements in ophthalmology have made cataract surgery safer, quicker, and more precise than ever before. Gone are the days when patients had to wait for the cataract to ‘mature’ or live with thick spectacles post-surgery. Today, with the right information and timely intervention, patients can regain near-perfect vision with minimal disruption to their daily life.
At Centre For Sight Group of Eye Hospitals, we are committed to transforming cataract care through patient education, early detection, and world-class treatment. Our hospitals across India are equipped with the latest technology, including Femto Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (FLACS), which is a bladeless, computer-controlled procedure offering unmatched precision. This technique allows for predictable outcomes, faster healing, and improved safety for patients, particularly those with co-existing eye conditions.
Additionally, we offer premium intraocular lenses (IOLs) such as multifocal, toric, and extended depth-of-focus lenses that help patients achieve excellent distance and near vision, significantly reducing their dependence on glasses post-surgery. These lenses are personalized based on the patient’s visual needs and lifestyle, ensuring better satisfaction and quality of life.
Centre For Sight also employs optical biometry, advanced phacoemulsification systems, and image-guided technologies to ensure optimal results. Our team of highly skilled ophthalmologists follows global best practices and continuously upgrades their skills to match international standards of care.
Beyond surgical excellence, we are equally focused on community outreach and preventive eye care. Our public awareness campaigns, eye screening camps in rural areas, and collaboration with governmental and non-governmental organizations have helped identify thousands of patients in need. Many of them have undergone sight-restoring surgeries free of cost or at subsidized rates.
It is important to remember that cataract surgery is not just a medical procedure; it is a life-changing intervention. It restores not just vision, but confidence, independence, and dignity—especially among the elderly who may be dependent on others due to poor sight. Early detection and timely surgery can also prevent complications like hypermature cataract or secondary glaucoma, which may lead to permanent vision loss.
As we move forward, we must continue to educate, screen, and empower people about cataract and the importance of regular eye check-ups. At Centre For Sight, our vision is to help India see better—one eye at a time. With the power of innovation, compassion, and awareness, we can eliminate preventable blindness and gift millions the joy of clear vision.
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