SUNLIGHT AND HUMAN CATARACTS

Abstract

Studies of the cataractous lenses of humans in 3 different geographic locations [the Philippines and Florida and New York states, USA] indicate that where the UV components of sunlight are more intense, dark brown cataracts result at a higher frequency than in locations where they are weak. Individuals exposed to sunlight regularly by virtue of their outdoor occupations seemed to develop this dark brown type of cataract much more frequently than those who work indoors. The biochemical characteristics of all brunescent cataracts were found to be very similar, whether derived from individuals exposed to high or low levels of sunlight. Exposure to sunlight probably specifically enhances brunescent cataract development in humans.