Question:
Is it true that high myopes are always more inclined to have retinal
detachment, cataract, glaucoma etc in their later years? Or do these
conditions have more to do with inheritance?
Answer:
Significant numbers of non myopes have retinal detachment, glaucoma and
cataract. Retinal detachment and glaucoma are slightly more prevelant in
people with an increased length of the eyeball. Most, but not all high
myopes also have long eyeballs so have an increased risk. Age is not a
particular risk for detachment. Age, race and family history are more
important risks for glaucoma than myopia. Cataract risk is linked to
increasing age and lifetime exposure to UV light.
The benefit of long-term nutrient intake to reduce the risk of age-related
ocular disease such as cataract or macular degeneration is subject to
controversy.Conclusions about the benefits and risks of antioxidant
supplements can be expected after reviewing the current literature
concerning oxidative-induced lens damage and nutritional effects.
Identification of influenceable risk factors for senile cataracts could
achieve immense economical relevance.In contrast to former longitudinal
epidemiological studies, the AREDS report failed to verify protective
properties of highly concentrated vitamin supplements on cataract formation.
Although there are enough epidemiological indications for reducing the risk
of cataracts by the intake of antioxidants, a general recommendation for the
use of supplements is untimely or even wrong until stringent evidence of
efficacy is provided.The usefulness of cataract prevention is discussed.
