June marks Cataract Awareness Month, a national campaign to spotlight one of the most common and treatable causes of vision loss in the UK. While cataracts often develop gradually, they can significantly impact everyday life if left untreated. Raising awareness helps people recognise the signs early and seek the right treatment.
At Optegra, we believe that informed choices lead to better outcomes. Read on as we explore why Cataract Awareness Month matters, how cataract surgery can restore your sight, and practical steps to protect your eye health.
Why Cataract Awareness Matters
Cataracts affect millions of people in the UK, particularly those over 60, with one in three people having symptomatic cataracts aged 65 and over. However, many individuals delay seeking help, often unaware that visual changes could be the result of cataract development. Cataract Awareness Month encourages people to prioritise their eye health and schedule an eye test if they notice changes.
Increased awareness around cataracts can lead to:
- Earlier detection and better treatment outcomes
- Fewer accidents linked to poor vision
- Greater independence and confidence
To gain a deeper understanding of cataracts, consult our guide that reviews what a cataract is, or explore the common symptoms of cataracts.
How Cataract Surgery Can Help Restore Your Eyesight
Cataract surgery is a quick, day-case procedure that replaces the cloudy natural lens with a clear artificial one. It’s the most commonly performed operation in the UK and delivers consistently excellent results.
At Optegra, we offer advanced cataract surgery performed by specialist consultants. You’ll be supported from your initial virtual consultation to your face-to-face assessment, surgery and aftercare.
“Cataract treatment is one of the safest and most cost-effective treatments of all in the health service. […] At Optegra, we will do everything we can to deliver safe, effective and timely cataract treatment for you.” Mr Shafiq Rehman, Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon at Optegra.
Prevention and Long-Term Eye Health
Cataract Awareness Month is also a chance to focus on steps you can take to support your long-term eye health. While ageing is the primary cause of cataracts, several lifestyle choices can help reduce your risk and delay their development.
Protecting your eyes from UV exposure is a simple and effective place to start. Wearing high-quality sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays can help protect the lens of the eye from damage over time. We explore this in more detail in our guide to whether sunglasses can prevent cataracts.
Nutrition also plays a vital role in protecting vision. A diet rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients can help maintain the clarity of the lens and reduce inflammation in the eyes. Leafy greens, colourful fruit and vegetables, oily fish, and nuts all contribute to a healthy visual system. For more guidance, read our expert advice on the top 10 foods that help keep your eyes healthy.
Managing underlying health conditions, especially diabetes, is equally important. High blood sugar levels can accelerate cataract development and increase the risk of other eye complications. Regular monitoring and good control of your condition can help preserve your eyesight.
Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol intake can also reduce oxidative stress on the eyes and support long-term well-being. These everyday choices add to meaningful protection for your vision as you age.
Book a Consultation and Take Control of Your Sight
If you’ve noticed changes in your vision or have been diagnosed with cataracts, there’s no reason to delay treatment. At Optegra, we begin with a free virtual consultation to assess your suitability, followed by a face-to-face appointment with one of our expert consultants. Take control of your vision today with expert-led care and personalised support.
By Author: Shafiq Rehman
Mr Rehman is a highly acclaimed ophthalmologist with 27 years of experience.
Medically Reviewed Date: 13th June 2025
