Etiopathogenesis of presenile cataracts in Central Kerala: A cross-sectional observational study

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Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the factors responsible for the development of presenile cataracts in patients between 18 and 50 years in Central Kerala. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional observational study was done on patients diagnosed with presenile cataracts (age group 18–50 years) at Little Flower Hospital, Angamaly, Kerala, from March 2016 to June 2016. A detailed history including the risk factors such as residence and occupation, diabetes mellitus (DM), atopy, and thyroid disorders was taken. Cataract was graded according to the Lens Opacities Classification System III. Statistical analysis of descriptive data was done with bar charts and pie diagrams. Results: Out of 200 participants included in the study, there were 88 males and 112 females. The mean age of the study population was 41.88 years. Pre senile cataract was associated with Diabetes mellitus in 31%, with atopy in 8.5%and with thyroid disorders in 5%of cases. Posterior subcapsular cataract (42%) was the most common type of cataract found. Total cataract was present in 23.5%. The odds of developing cortical cataract was higher in those with thyroid disorder (odds ratio (OR) = 6.97), nuclear cataract was higher in those with uveitis (OR = 6.18) and high myopia (OR = 7.97), and total cataract was higher in those with a history of trauma (OR = 8.95). Conclusion: Apart from DM and atopy, the place of residence and occupation (and thus possibly exposure to ultraviolet radiations) is also associated with the development of presenile cataract. Posterior subcapsular cataract is the most common type of presenile cataract in Central Kerala.