Cataracts Can Attack the Productive Age, Check Out the Causes and Symptoms

JAKARTA - Cataracts have long been synonymous with diseases in old age. However, in recent years, cases of cataracts in young people have begun to receive attention because they can appear earlier due to various factors.

This condition is certainly a matter of concern, especially for those who are still in the productive age and are active.

Eye specialist Florence Meilani Manurung explained that cataracts are not only experienced by the elderly, but can also occur at a young age in the form of juvenile cataracts.

"There is juvenile cataract, but not as much (cataract) in old age or senile cataract," he said.

According to him, cataracts in the productive age are generally triggered by several factors, such as trauma to the eyes, metabolic disorders such as diabetes and hypertension, and severe nearsightedness or high myopia.

The trauma in question can be direct impact, blows, or injuries caused by sharp objects hitting the eyes. In addition, health conditions such as diabetes and hypertension also play a role in increasing the risk of cataracts at a younger age.

Other factors such as the use of certain medications, as well as genetic and environmental influences can also trigger the appearance of cataracts.

Dr. Florence explained that the initial symptoms of cataracts are often not realized. Generally characterized by a decrease in visual quality, such as a foggy, smoky, or blurry view even though you are using glasses.

"This condition is often not realized from the beginning, especially at a productive age when they are still active," he explained.

In general, cataracts are part of the natural aging process, similar to other physical changes such as graying hair or skin that begins to wrinkle. Even so, the risk of cataracts can still be suppressed by avoiding the triggers.

Prevention efforts include using eye protection when doing activities outdoors, avoiding injuries, and implementing a healthy lifestyle.

Based on the policy of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia, cataract is defined as a condition of clouding in the lens of the eye that causes a gradual decrease in vision.

Cataracts are also one of the main causes of vision impairment to blindness. Government data records hundreds of thousands of cases of blindness due to cataracts throughout 2025.

To overcome this, the government provides screening services through the Free Health Check program and includes cataract surgery in the National Health Insurance (JKN) scheme.

In addition, through the roadmap for eye health, it is targeted that more cataract sufferers will have access to surgery to prevent more serious impacts.