Smoking and Cataracts: How Cigarettes Hasten Vision Loss—And Why Quitting Matters
Cataracts are one of the most common causes of vision impairment worldwide, clouding the eye’s lens and making daily activities harder over time. While aging is a major risk factor, smoking significantly speeds up cataract formation, increasing both the likelihood and severity of vision loss. The chemicals in cigarette smoke damage eye tissues, accelerating the breakdown of the lens and making surgery necessary much sooner than it might have been otherwise. The good news? This damage is preventable. At ReFocus Eye Health Branford, our experienced surgeons—Dr. Paul Masi and Dr. Susel Oropesa—combine state-of-the-art technology with personalized care, ensuring your surgery is not just safe but as comfortable as possible. Whether you need cataract surgery, glaucoma treatment, or care for macular degeneration, our team is here to provide exceptional service.
Key Biological Mechanisms Behind Smoking-Induced Cataracts
How Smoking Intensity and Duration Affect Cataract Risk
How Much and How Long You Smoke Matters
Studies have confirmed a dose-response relationship—meaning the more cigarettes smoked and the longer the smoking history, the greater the risk of cataracts.
Spotlight on Care: This Month’s Featured Eye Doctor
Meet Dr. Susel Oropesa, M.D.
Dr. Susel Oropesa, a Yale and Columbia trained board-certified surgeon, has extensive expertise in cataract surgery, glaucoma, retina, and general ophthalmology. Fluent in English and Spanish, she is highly regarded for the care she shows to each patient.
Why Quitting Smoking Reduces Cataract Risk
Quitting smoking significantly lowers the risk of developing cataracts, the leading cause of blindness worldwide. Cigarette smoke releases harmful chemicals that accelerate protein breakdown in the eye’s lens, causing it to become cloudy over time. By quitting, you reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, allowing your eyes to stay clearer and healthier for longer.
The Public Health Impact of Smoking Cessation
Since cataracts are the leading cause of vision impairment worldwide, reducing smoking rates can have significant public health benefits.
Q&A about Smoking and Cataracts
Your Trusted Cataract Surgeons in Branford
Cataracts don’t have to hold you back. Our trusted team at ReFocus Eye Health Branford is here to help you see clearly again. We regularly welcome patients from East Haven, North Haven, New Haven, and even out of state or overseas. Our 4.8 average rating with over 230 patient reviews is a testament to the dedication, expertise, and care we provide to every patient.
Cataract surgery isn’t just about regaining clearer vision—it’s about reclaiming your life, your independence, and your joy in seeing the world vividly again. At ReFocus Eye Health Branford, you’re not just another patient—you’re part of our family. Our dedicated team, advanced technology, and personalized care ensure you receive the best possible vision—for today and years to come.
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