NeuralCipher Research overview
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Cataracts represent the leading cause of blindness worldwide, particularly in older adults, and constitute a significant public health challenge. Although cataract surgery is generally associated with a high safety profile, both patients and healthcare providers often face significant challenges due to age-related physiological changes and the high prevalence of comorbidities, which are directly linked to cataractogenesis and other systemic diseases that can complicate both the surgical procedure and postoperative recovery. This narrative review aimed to assess the epidemiological characteristics of age-related physiological and pathological comorbidities in older adults with cataracts, evaluating their impact on preoperative assessment, surgical outcomes, and public health planning. Articles were identified through non-systematic searches of PubMed, EMBASE, and Scopus using a combination of medical subject headings (MeSH) terms and free-text keywords. Among the multiple non-ocular comorbidities, carotid artery disease (CAD) and hypertension (HTN) are among the cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) with the highest correlations with cataract. Diabetes, dyslipidemia, and metabolic syndrome are also highly prevalent and significantly influence surgical outcomes, as poor glycemic control increases intraoperative risks and postoperative complications. Additionally, neurological conditions such as stroke, Parkinson's disease, and epilepsy often complicate anesthesia administration, contribute to postoperative delirium, and affect adherence to treatment protocols. Given these complexities, a multidisciplinary approach and targeted preoperative screening may offer personalized care to improve safety and outcomes. Despite advances in clinical care, disparities in access to cataract surgery, especially in underserved populations, continue to exist. Thus, a coordinated public health strategy that promotes early detection, equitable access, and the integration of innovations such as teleophthalmology and artificial intelligence is essential to optimize care for older adults with cataracts worldwide.
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