Final answer:
Cataracts are largely age-related with a high occurrence in older adults; exposure to UV-B light, hypertension, diabetes, and certain lifestyle choices like poor nutrition and smoking can also increase the risk. Protective eyewear and proper nutrition can help in prevention.
Step-by-step explanation:
Risk factors for cataracts include a variety of environmental, health-related, and lifestyle components. Significant risk factors for cataract development are age, with a prevalence of 60% in individuals aged between 65 and 74 years, and repeated exposure to UV-B light, which is particularly concerning for those living near the equatorial belt where access to medical care may be limited. Cataract formation is also linked to medical conditions such as hypertension and diabetes, while lifestyle factors like obesity, poor nutrition, lack of physical activity, and tobacco use also contribute substantially to the risk. Vitamins A and C appear to provide some protection against cataracts, suggesting that nutrition plays a role in prevention. Protective measures, such as wearing sunglasses that offer UV protection, preferably plastic ones which are more effective than glass, are advisable to mitigate some of these risk factors.