It makes sense that cataract surgery could prevent traffic crashes by improving drivers’ vision – but is there any proof?
A recent study suggests that the answer is “yes!” A September 2018 article in JAMA Ophthalmology looked at just this association. An abstract to the article is linked here.
This study followed over 500,000 patients who had received cataract surgery in at least one eye. The examiners studied the rate at which these individuals presented to Emergency Rooms for injuries sustained as the driver in a traffic accident. Pre-surgical and post-surgical rates of such injuries were compared. In conclusion, drivers who had received cataract surgery were 9% less likely to experience a significant injury related to a traffic crash!
Cataract is an extremely common cause of vision disability worldwide. The symptoms of cataract include blurred vision, glare, and decreased contrast sensitivity. It makes sense that correcting this condition would lead to improved vision and safer driving – particularly at night.
Not every person with cataract needs surgery, but this article provides an important rationale for considering cataract surgery when vision starts to become compromised. This procedure might just be safer for you and those around you!