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Help for a condition that is common among older people

	If you have trouble seeing clearly, it may get in the way of doing things you enjoy. You may also worry that your eyesight will get worse. But treatment can help you see better and get on with your life. ConsumerReportsHealth.org can help you find the best course of treatment for cataracts.
	Subscribe to ConsumerReportsHealth.org today to find out if surgery is the right option for your cataracts.

Consumer Reports Health explains the best and most up-to-date expert research and evidence about treating cataracts. Our clear and sound advice helps you and your doctor choose your best treatment options.

Key points for people with cataracts

• A third of people over the age of 65 have cataracts. And about half of people have them by the age of 75.
• Most cataracts are caused by aging.
• Your chances of getting cataracts as you get older can be higher because of the way you live. For example, your chances are higher if you smoke or go out in the sun a lot.
• But cataracts can be caused by other things. You can be born with them or get them because of health problems, such as diabetes.
• Surgery is the only treatment for cataracts that we know works.

You should be able to see much better and enjoy life more after surgery. But there are risks, and your eyesight probably won't be perfect.

Our in-depth condition report and Treatment Ratings table will help you and your doctor decide which treatment for cataracts is right for you. As a Consumer Reports Health subscriber, we'll also help you sort through the best research and the most effective treatments for over 100 conditions and illnesses that may affect you and your family.