Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

Who Needs HPV Vaccine? Guide For Every Parent, Teen And Adult

HPV vaccine, cervical cancer prevention, HPV symptoms, HPV vaccination age, HPV in men, HPV-related cancers, HPV vaccine side effects

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common viral infection worldwide, with more than 200 known types. While some types lead to benign skin warts, others are responsible for severe health threats, such as cervical, throat, anal, and penile cancers. The <span>HPV vaccine</span> provides strong protection against the most lethal strains, avoiding long-term health complications.

For adults, teenagers, and parents, being informed about the role of HPV vaccination is important in making an educated healthcare choice. Should teens get vaccinated? Can adults benefit from it? Does it affect puberty or hormonal balance? In this detailed guide, we break down everything you need to know about the HPV vaccine, its benefits, and why it’s a crucial step in cancer prevention.

We asked Senior Consultant in Gynae Oncology and Robotic Surgery Dr. Monika Meena, all important questions related to HPV for teens, adults, and parents. Let's understand the importance and relevance of the vaccination.

The HPV vaccine is intended to educate the immune system to detect and fight high-risk HPV types before they cause harm. It is not a cure for an infection that already exists, but rather prevents future infections from occurring. The HPV vaccine helps the immune system recognize and fight off high-risk strains of the virus before they cause harm. It protects against:

<ul><li>Genital warts</li><li>Cervical cancer</li><li>Vaginal, vulvar, anal, and penile cancers</li><li>Mouth, throat, head, and neck cancers linked to HPV</li></ul>

While the vaccine cannot treat existing HPV infections, it can prevent new infections from occurring, making early vaccination particularly effective. By getting the HPV vaccine, people develop immunity to the virus, lowering their risk of getting <span>HPV-related cancers</span> and genital warts. The vaccine works best in people who have not yet been exposed to HPV, which is why it is mostly given to preteens before they become sexually active.

Preteen dosing is recommended by top health agencies, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), for boys and girls to get the HPV vaccine at ages 9 through 15. The preteen is when the vaccine is most effective since it has the highest immune response in preteens.

The HPV vaccine is most effective when given between the ages of 9 and 15, before any potential exposure to the virus. “Girls in this age group require only two doses of the vaccine, given six months apart,” says Dr. Meena.

<strong>Dosing Schedule in Preteens: </strong>Two shots, spaced six months apart, are advised for 9–14 years.

<h2>Young Adults and Late Vaccination</h2>

If an individual is missed during the suggested vaccination window during their teens, they can still get the HPV vaccine through age 45. The efficacy does drop somewhat in those who could have been exposed to some of the strains of HPV.

Yes, but the effectiveness may be lower. “Women can receive the vaccine until the age of 45, but by then, they may have already been exposed to certain HPV strains,” explains Dr. Meena. 

<strong>Dosing Schedule for Ages 15–45: </strong>Three doses are needed over a six-month span.

<h2>Do Boys and Men Need HPV Vaccination?</h2>

HPV cancers are not merely a women's health issue. HPV can lead to penile, anal, throat, and oropharyngeal cancers in men. Men can also pass HPV to their partners and develop cervical cancer. The vaccine is also vital for males to ensure HPV non-transmission and reduce their own cancer risks.

Dr. Meena emphasizes, "Absolutely. HPV doesn’t just affect women. Men can also develop cancers related to HPV, such as penile, anal, and oropharyngeal (throat) cancers. Vaccination in males offers the same protective benefits, preventing both cancer and the spread of the virus"

<h2>Does the HPV Vaccine Have an Impact Hormones?</h2>

Another prevalent parent concern is if the HPV vaccine disrupts puberty or hormone equilibrium. Doctor specialists affirm that the HPV vaccine won't change puberty or regulate hormones in any capacity. Its role is purely to activate the body's defense to identify and eliminate HPV infection.

A common myth is that the HPV vaccine disrupts puberty or causes hormonal imbalances. This is false. “The HPV vaccine does not alter hormonal levels or delay puberty,” clarifies Dr. Meena. “It may cause mild side effects like redness, rash, fever, or pain at the injection site, but it does not interfere with normal growth or development.”

Similar to the majority of vaccines, the HPV injection has some minor Side Effects, which include:

<ul><li>Injection pain or soreness</li><li>Slight fever</li><li>Weakeness</li><li>Mild dizziness or headache</li></ul>

Severe reactions to the vaccine are very uncommon, so it is a safe vaccine for all but a small percentage of individuals.

<h2>HPV Vaccine vs. Pap Smear and HPV Test</h2>

Although the HPV vaccine inhibits cancers associated with HPV, routine Pap tests and HPV testing are screening processes employed to diagnose precancerous or cancerous cervical changes. Many people wonder if getting the vaccine means they can skip routine cervical screenings. The answer is no.

“The HPV vaccine prevents cervical cancer, while Pap smears and HPV testing are screening methods to detect early signs of cancer or precancerous lesions,” explains Dr. Meena. Even vaccinated individuals should undergo regular screenings once they become sexually active, as these tests help catch potential abnormalities early for timely treatment.

<strong>Pap Smear (Cervical Screen): </strong>Detects abnormal cervical cells before they are cancerous.

<strong>HPV Testing:</strong> Identifies the presence of high-risk HPV types that can cause cancer.

Even after vaccination, routine cervical screening is still necessary for early detection and prompt treatment of any abnormality.

<h2>Is HPV Vaccination a Lifesaving Choice?</h2>

HPV-related cancers are preventable, and the vaccine is a powerful tool in that fight. Whether you're a parent deciding for your child, a teen considering immunization, or an adult wondering if it's still worth getting vaccinated, the answer is clear: the HPV vaccine offers life-saving protection.

For parents, it can be a matter of preplanning their children's long-term health by assuring that the HPV vaccine is given to them. For adults, it is never too late to bring up the issue of HPV vaccination with a physician and find out if immunization can still provide protective effects.

<em>Dr. Monika Meena is a Senior Consultant Gynae Oncology and Robotic Surgeon at Apollo Cancer Centre, Kolkata in India</em>

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The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common viral infection worldwide, with more than 200 known types. While some types lead to benign skin warts, others are responsible for severe health threats, such as cervical, throat, anal, and penile cancers. The HPV vaccine provides strong protection against the most lethal strains, avoiding long-term health complications.For adults, teenagers, and parents, being informed about the role of HPV vaccination is important in making an educated healthcare choice. Should teens get vaccinated? Can adults benefit from it? Does it affect puberty or hormonal balance? In this detailed guide, we break down everything you need to know about the HPV vaccine, its benefits, and why it’s a crucial step in cancer prevention.We asked Senior Consultant in Gynae Oncology and Robotic Surgery Dr. Monika Meena, all important questions related to HPV for teens, adults, and parents. Let's understand the importance and relevance of the vaccination.How the HPV Vaccine Works?The HPV vaccine is intended to educate the immune system to detect and fight high-risk HPV types before they cause harm. It is not a cure for an infection that already exists, but rather prevents future infections from occurring. The HPV vaccine helps the immune system recognize and fight off high-risk strains of the virus before they cause harm. It protects against:Genital wartsCervical cancerVaginal, vulvar, anal, and penile cancersMouth, throat, head, and neck cancers linked to HPVWhile the vaccine cannot treat existing HPV infections, it can prevent new infections from occurring, making early vaccination particularly effective. By getting the HPV vaccine, people develop immunity to the virus, lowering their risk of getting HPV-related cancers and genital warts. The vaccine works best in people who have not yet been exposed to HPV, which is why it is mostly given to preteens before they become sexually active.Who Should Get the HPV Vaccine?Children and TeensPreteen dosing is recommended by top health agencies, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), for boys and girls to get the HPV vaccine at ages 9 through 15. The preteen is when the vaccine is most effective since it has the highest immune response in preteens.The HPV vaccine is most effective when given between the ages of 9 and 15, before any potential exposure to the virus. “Girls in this age group require only two doses of the vaccine, given six months apart,” says Dr. Meena.Dosing Schedule in Preteens: Two shots, spaced six months apart, are advised for 9–14 years.Young Adults and Late VaccinationIf an individual is missed during the suggested vaccination window during their teens, they can still get the HPV vaccine through age 45. The efficacy does drop somewhat in those who could have been exposed to some of the strains of HPV.Yes, but the effectiveness may be lower. “Women can receive the vaccine until the age of 45, but by then, they may have already been exposed to certain HPV strains,” explains Dr. Meena. Dosing Schedule for Ages 15–45: Three doses are needed over a six-month span.Do Boys and Men Need HPV Vaccination?HPV cancers are not merely a women's health issue. HPV can lead to penile, anal, throat, and oropharyngeal cancers in men. Men can also pass HPV to their partners and develop cervical cancer. The vaccine is also vital for males to ensure HPV non-transmission and reduce their own cancer risks.Dr. Meena emphasizes, "Absolutely. HPV doesn’t just affect women. Men can also develop cancers related to HPV, such as penile, anal, and oropharyngeal (throat) cancers. Vaccination in males offers the same protective benefits, preventing both cancer and the spread of the virus"Does the HPV Vaccine Have an Impact Hormones?Another prevalent parent concern is if the HPV vaccine disrupts puberty or hormone equilibrium. Doctor specialists affirm that the HPV vaccine won't change puberty or regulate hormones in any capacity. Its role is purely to activate the body's defense to identify and eliminate HPV infection.A common myth is that the HPV vaccine disrupts puberty or causes hormonal imbalances. This is false. “The HPV vaccine does not alter hormonal levels or delay puberty,” clarifies Dr. Meena. “It may cause mild side effects like redness, rash, fever, or pain at the injection site, but it does not interfere with normal growth or development.”Similar to the majority of vaccines, the HPV injection has some minor Side Effects, which include:Injection pain or sorenessSlight feverWeakenessMild dizziness or headacheSevere reactions to the vaccine are very uncommon, so it is a safe vaccine for all but a small percentage of individuals.HPV Vaccine vs. Pap Smear and HPV TestAlthough the HPV vaccine inhibits cancers associated with HPV, routine Pap tests and HPV testing are screening processes employed to diagnose precancerous or cancerous cervical changes. Many people wonder if getting the vaccine means they can skip routine cervical screenings. The answer is no.“The HPV vaccine prevents cervical cancer, while Pap smears and HPV testing are screening methods to detect early signs of cancer or precancerous lesions,” explains Dr. Meena. Even vaccinated individuals should undergo regular screenings once they become sexually active, as these tests help catch potential abnormalities early for timely treatment.Pap Smear (Cervical Screen): Detects abnormal cervical cells before they are cancerous.HPV Testing: Identifies the presence of high-risk HPV types that can cause cancer.Even after vaccination, routine cervical screening is still necessary for early detection and prompt treatment of any abnormality.Is HPV Vaccination a Lifesaving Choice?HPV-related cancers are preventable, and the vaccine is a powerful tool in that fight. Whether you're a parent deciding for your child, a teen considering immunization, or an adult wondering if it's still worth getting vaccinated, the answer is clear: the HPV vaccine offers life-saving protection.For parents, it can be a matter of preplanning their children's long-term health by assuring that the HPV vaccine is given to them. For adults, it is never too late to bring up the issue of HPV vaccination with a physician and find out if immunization can still provide protective effects.Dr. Monika Meena is a Senior Consultant Gynae Oncology and Robotic Surgeon at Apollo Cancer Centre, Kolkata in India

who needs hpv vaccine? guide for every parent, teen and adult

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Human papillomavirus (<span>HPV</span>) is a virus that affects every sexually active person at some point of their life, even if there are no symptoms. The <span>World Health Organization</span> explains that it can affect the skin, genital area, and throat. While preventative measures do help, they cannot totally protect themselves from transmission. Despite the contagious nature of the virus, these infections go away without treatment. However, there are some likely scenarios where they can cause abnormal cells to develop, which later on become cancer. 

What deters many people from getting themselves checked out is the general stigma surrounding sexually transmitted infections or diseases. So, when at home tests became available, the rates screenings improved a lot! 

A new study suggests that women are much more likely to get screened for HPV (human papillomavirus) if they can do the test themselves at home in private. This is a big deal because almost all cervical cancers are caused by HPV. Researchers found that when women were offered a mail-in test kit, the number of women getting screened more than doubled. 

<h2>Why <span rel="noindex">At-Home Testing is a Game-Changer</span> </h2>

Around 11,500 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year in the U.S. Sadly, more than half of these women have either rarely or never been screened for HPV. Traditional screening often involves a pelvic exam at a clinic, which can be uncomfortable or distressing for some women. It also requires them to take time off and travel to the clinic. 

The good news is that the first at-home screening test for cervical cancer recently got approved for use in the U.S. and should be available very soon. This new option could make a huge difference in how many women get screened. 

To see how at-home testing would work in real life, researchers studied nearly 2,500 women aged 30 to 65. They divided the women into three groups: 

<ul><li>One group received a phone call reminding them to go to a clinic for screening.</li><li>Another group was mailed an at-home self-collection test kit.</li><li>The third group received an at-home kit and also got a follow-up call if they didn't return their kit quickly.</li></ul>

The results were clear: women who were offered an at-home test kit were more than twice as likely to get screened. About 41% of those who received a kit participated, compared to only 17% who just got a phone reminder to go to a clinic. When women who received a kit also got follow-up reminders, participation jumped even higher, to 47%. Interestingly, over 80% of the women in the test kit groups who participated chose to mail in their kit for analysis, rather than going to a clinic. 

<h2>Making At-Home Tests Accessible </h2>

The study also found that about 13% of the women who returned a kit tested positive for a high-risk type of HPV. As these self-collection tests become more widely available, it's crucial to ensure they are offered in clinics and health centers, especially for people who face bigger challenges in accessing healthcare. By removing these hurdles, experts hope to increase screening rates and significantly reduce the burden of preventable cervical cancer. 

Researchers now plan to investigate how to best use these HPV self-collection tests in different healthcare settings. While at-home HPV testing offers great promise, the next challenge is to make sure it's adopted safely and effectively into regular medical practice. This includes figuring out how healthcare providers can best follow up with women who have abnormal test results. 

world health organization

At-Home HPV Testing4

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Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a virus that affects every sexually active person at some point of their life, even if there are no symptoms. The World Health Organization explains that it can affect the skin, genital area, and throat. While preventative measures do help, they cannot totally protect themselves from transmission. Despite the contagious nature of the virus, these infections go away without treatment. However, there are some likely scenarios where they can cause abnormal cells to develop, which later on become cancer. What deters many people from getting themselves checked out is the general stigma surrounding sexually transmitted infections or diseases. So, when at home tests became available, the rates screenings improved a lot! A new study suggests that women are much more likely to get screened for HPV (human papillomavirus) if they can do the test themselves at home in private. This is a big deal because almost all cervical cancers are caused by HPV. Researchers found that when women were offered a mail-in test kit, the number of women getting screened more than doubled. Why At-Home Testing is a Game-Changer Around 11,500 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year in the U.S. Sadly, more than half of these women have either rarely or never been screened for HPV. Traditional screening often involves a pelvic exam at a clinic, which can be uncomfortable or distressing for some women. It also requires them to take time off and travel to the clinic. The good news is that the first at-home screening test for cervical cancer recently got approved for use in the U.S. and should be available very soon. This new option could make a huge difference in how many women get screened. How the Study Proved Its Point To see how at-home testing would work in real life, researchers studied nearly 2,500 women aged 30 to 65. They divided the women into three groups: One group received a phone call reminding them to go to a clinic for screening.Another group was mailed an at-home self-collection test kit.The third group received an at-home kit and also got a follow-up call if they didn't return their kit quickly.The results were clear: women who were offered an at-home test kit were more than twice as likely to get screened. About 41% of those who received a kit participated, compared to only 17% who just got a phone reminder to go to a clinic. When women who received a kit also got follow-up reminders, participation jumped even higher, to 47%. Interestingly, over 80% of the women in the test kit groups who participated chose to mail in their kit for analysis, rather than going to a clinic. Making At-Home Tests Accessible The study also found that about 13% of the women who returned a kit tested positive for a high-risk type of HPV. As these self-collection tests become more widely available, it's crucial to ensure they are offered in clinics and health centers, especially for people who face bigger challenges in accessing healthcare. By removing these hurdles, experts hope to increase screening rates and significantly reduce the burden of preventable cervical cancer. Researchers now plan to investigate how to best use these HPV self-collection tests in different healthcare settings. While at-home HPV testing offers great promise, the next challenge is to make sure it's adopted safely and effectively into regular medical practice. This includes figuring out how healthcare providers can best follow up with women who have abnormal test results. 

at-home hpv testing improves cancer screenings: study

Ishita Roy

For decades, moderate alcohol consumption—typically defined as one to two drinks per day—was thought to provide certain protective benefits for heart health. However, the <span>American Heart Association</span> (AHA) has now issued a strong scientific statement saying that belief no longer holds up against emerging evidence. The AHA, along with many cardiologists in India, including those in Kolkata, are urging caution and reconsideration of alcohol's role in heart health.

<h4>Rethinking the “Protective” Myth</h4>

According to the AHA statement released on June 9, new studies using improved research methods have cast doubt on earlier findings that suggested alcohol might reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks or strokes. While some observational studies hinted at cardioprotective effects, experts now say the data lacks consistency and credibility.

The idea that <span>moderate drinking</span> might lower the risk of certain heart conditions emerged from flawed or outdated studies, many of which didn’t adequately account for lifestyle, dietary patterns, or underlying health issues in participants.

The relationship between alcohol and cardiovascular disease is far from straightforward. The AHA points out that alcohol use has long been linked with a range of heart-related conditions—including high blood pressure (hypertension), myocardial infarction (heart attack), arrhythmias, stroke, and heart failure. While excessive <span>alcohol consumption</span> has always been known to be harmful, even moderate intake may not be as safe as once believed.

Cardiologists caution that no randomized controlled trial has definitively shown alcohol in any form to be beneficial for heart health. Claims that wine—especially red wine—may have positive effects apply only in very specific contexts, and do not justify broad public recommendations.

Experts highlight that for certain individuals, particularly those with high blood pressure, reducing or even eliminating alcohol consumption may be the only safe course. This is because alcohol—even when consumed moderately—can aggravate hypertension and make it harder to control.

There’s also uncertainty around stroke risk. While heavy drinking undeniably increases the likelihood of strokes, the impact of low to moderate drinking remains unclear due to conflicting data. This uncertainty challenges the assumption that light drinking is harmless.

Health professionals continue to warn that all forms of substance use, including alcohol and tobacco, contribute to lifestyle diseases and chronic health conditions. The 2020–2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend no more than two drinks a day for men and one for women. However, India’s revised Dietary Guidelines, prepared by the Indian Council for Medical Research and the National Institute of Nutrition, do not make any mention of alcohol at all—highlighting a gap in national-level public health messaging.

The global burden of alcohol-related health issues is immense. The U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) estimated that alcohol-related conditions could cost the U.S. nearly $1.87 trillion between 2011 and 2050, equivalent to about 1.45% of the country’s GDP. The NIH also criticized the lack of clear public messaging, which has allowed myths about alcohol’s safety to persist for decades.

In 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) reinforced this warning. In a statement published in The Lancet Public Health, it declared that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption that does not affect health. WHO has also set a goal of reducing harmful alcohol use globally by 10% between 2013 and 2025.

is moderate drinking safe?

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For decades, moderate alcohol consumption—typically defined as one to two drinks per day—was thought to provide certain protective benefits for heart health. However, the American Heart Association (AHA) has now issued a strong scientific statement saying that belief no longer holds up against emerging evidence. The AHA, along with many cardiologists in India, including those in Kolkata, are urging caution and reconsideration of alcohol's role in heart health.Rethinking the “Protective” MythAccording to the AHA statement released on June 9, new studies using improved research methods have cast doubt on earlier findings that suggested alcohol might reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks or strokes. While some observational studies hinted at cardioprotective effects, experts now say the data lacks consistency and credibility.The idea that moderate drinking might lower the risk of certain heart conditions emerged from flawed or outdated studies, many of which didn’t adequately account for lifestyle, dietary patterns, or underlying health issues in participants.Complex and Controversial LinksThe relationship between alcohol and cardiovascular disease is far from straightforward. The AHA points out that alcohol use has long been linked with a range of heart-related conditions—including high blood pressure (hypertension), myocardial infarction (heart attack), arrhythmias, stroke, and heart failure. While excessive alcohol consumption has always been known to be harmful, even moderate intake may not be as safe as once believed.Cardiologists caution that no randomized controlled trial has definitively shown alcohol in any form to be beneficial for heart health. Claims that wine—especially red wine—may have positive effects apply only in very specific contexts, and do not justify broad public recommendations.When Moderation Isn’t EnoughExperts highlight that for certain individuals, particularly those with high blood pressure, reducing or even eliminating alcohol consumption may be the only safe course. This is because alcohol—even when consumed moderately—can aggravate hypertension and make it harder to control.There’s also uncertainty around stroke risk. While heavy drinking undeniably increases the likelihood of strokes, the impact of low to moderate drinking remains unclear due to conflicting data. This uncertainty challenges the assumption that light drinking is harmless.Addiction and Lifestyle RisksHealth professionals continue to warn that all forms of substance use, including alcohol and tobacco, contribute to lifestyle diseases and chronic health conditions. The 2020–2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend no more than two drinks a day for men and one for women. However, India’s revised Dietary Guidelines, prepared by the Indian Council for Medical Research and the National Institute of Nutrition, do not make any mention of alcohol at all—highlighting a gap in national-level public health messaging.The global burden of alcohol-related health issues is immense. The U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) estimated that alcohol-related conditions could cost the U.S. nearly $1.87 trillion between 2011 and 2050, equivalent to about 1.45% of the country’s GDP. The NIH also criticized the lack of clear public messaging, which has allowed myths about alcohol’s safety to persist for decades.In 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) reinforced this warning. In a statement published in The Lancet Public Health, it declared that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption that does not affect health. WHO has also set a goal of reducing harmful alcohol use globally by 10% between 2013 and 2025.

limited drinking is not safe, says american heart association

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As per the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, June is the <span>cataract awareness month</span>. This has been designated as a month to spread awareness around cataract and educate the public about it. This is also the leading cause of <span>vision loss</span> worldwide. This month-long observance also highlights the importance of early detection and treatment of cataracts, and emphasizes that prompt intervention can significantly preserve vision. 

<h4>Why Is It Declared As The <span rel="noindex">Cataract Month</span>?</h4>

As per the International Agency for the Prevention of <span>Blindness</span> (IAPB), this has been done to provide patients and professionals with free educational resources on cataract, which is the clouding of eye's lens. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cataract is the leading cause of blindness worldwide and the leading cause of vision loss in the United States. An estimated 20.5 million Americans aged 40 year and older have cataract in one or both eyes. 

It is the clouding of eye's natural lens, which sits just behind the iris. In a healthy eye, this lens focuses light onto the retina, allowing us to see clearly. Over time, due to aging or other factors, this lens may become cloudy, leading to blurred or dimmed vision. 

As per the World Health Organization (WHO), cataracts account for nearly 51% of world blindness and affects over 65 million people. 

<h4>History Of Cataract Awareness Month </h4>

Prevent Blindness declared the month of June as Cataract Awareness Month and it has been joined by other organizations, including the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), and UNC Ophthalmology. This month spotlights an ocular disease. 

The earliest documented case of cataract was reported to be in a museum in Cairo that houses a small statue from the 5th dynasty. The wooden statue is of a priest reader who has a white patch carved into the pupil of the left eye. It is thought to represent a cataract. 

The earliest procedure of cataract removal is couching. Several illustrations too have been found inside Egyptian temples and tombs depict surgical instruments that indicate the use of couching, a procedure that involved dislodging the eye lens to clear the cataract. 

<h4>How Does Cataract Affect Vision?</h4>

<ul><li>Blurred or foggy vision</li><li>Increased sensitivity to light or glare</li><li>Difficulty seeing at night</li><li>Colors appear faded or yellow</li><li>Frequent changes in glasses prescription</li><li>Seeing halos around lights</li></ul>

Cataract are caused by various factors, some of which include diabetes, prolonged exposure to UV rays, smoking and alcohol consumption, long-term use of corticosteroids, and eye injuries. 

The best way to prevent them is to wear UV-protective sunglasses, manage systemic conditions like diabetes and also go for regular eye exams, especially after the age of 40. It is also important to focus on your diet and other lifestyle habits, and consume more green leafy vegetables, and fruits.

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vision loss

blindness

As per the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, June is the cataract awareness month. This has been designated as a month to spread awareness around cataract and educate the public about it. This is also the leading cause of vision loss worldwide. This month-long observance also highlights the importance of early detection and treatment of cataracts, and emphasizes that prompt intervention can significantly preserve vision. Why Is It Declared As The Cataract Month?As per the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB), this has been done to provide patients and professionals with free educational resources on cataract, which is the clouding of eye's lens. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cataract is the leading cause of blindness worldwide and the leading cause of vision loss in the United States. An estimated 20.5 million Americans aged 40 year and older have cataract in one or both eyes. What Is Cataract?It is the clouding of eye's natural lens, which sits just behind the iris. In a healthy eye, this lens focuses light onto the retina, allowing us to see clearly. Over time, due to aging or other factors, this lens may become cloudy, leading to blurred or dimmed vision. As per the World Health Organization (WHO), cataracts account for nearly 51% of world blindness and affects over 65 million people. History Of Cataract Awareness Month Prevent Blindness declared the month of June as Cataract Awareness Month and it has been joined by other organizations, including the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), and UNC Ophthalmology. This month spotlights an ocular disease. The earliest documented case of cataract was reported to be in a museum in Cairo that houses a small statue from the 5th dynasty. The wooden statue is of a priest reader who has a white patch carved into the pupil of the left eye. It is thought to represent a cataract. The earliest procedure of cataract removal is couching. Several illustrations too have been found inside Egyptian temples and tombs depict surgical instruments that indicate the use of couching, a procedure that involved dislodging the eye lens to clear the cataract. How Does Cataract Affect Vision?The following symptoms are:Blurred or foggy visionIncreased sensitivity to light or glareDifficulty seeing at nightColors appear faded or yellowFrequent changes in glasses prescriptionSeeing halos around lightsWhat Causes Cataract?Cataract are caused by various factors, some of which include diabetes, prolonged exposure to UV rays, smoking and alcohol consumption, long-term use of corticosteroids, and eye injuries. The best way to prevent them is to wear UV-protective sunglasses, manage systemic conditions like diabetes and also go for regular eye exams, especially after the age of 40. It is also important to focus on your diet and other lifestyle habits, and consume more green leafy vegetables, and fruits.

cataract awareness month: importance, significance, and history

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