Abstract
Abstract: :
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the associations between refractive errors and age–related cataracts in a defined elderly Chinese population. Methods: A cross–sectional survey of ocular diseases was conducted in the Shihpai district of Taipei, Taiwan. A total of 2,045 residents 65 years of age or older were randomly selected and invited to complete a comprehensive questionnaire and undertake a detailed ocular examination, including measurements of refractive error by autorefraction and grading of cataracts by Lens Opacity Classification System (LOCS) III. 1,361 (66.6%) of the subjects participated in the ocular examination. Data from both eyes were analyzed by generalized estimating equation, adjusting for potential cataract risk factors. Results: Included in the analysis were 2223 eyes. When controlling for age, gender, education, diabetes, hypertension, cigarette smoking, and body mass index, nuclear cataract was associated with moderate myopia (odds ratio [OR] 1.8; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1–2.9), and inversely associated with hyperopia (OR 0.8; 95% CI, 0.7–1.0). Posterior subcapsular cataract was associated with low myopia (OR 1.8; 95% CI, 1.3–11.3), and moderate myopia (OR 3.0; 95% CI, 1.5–17.4). Cortical cataract was not associated with any type of refractive errors. Conclusions: This population–based study provides data on the association between nuclear and posterior subcapsular cataracts and myopia in Chinese people. The association is similar to that reported in other ethnical populations.
Keywords: clinical (human) or epidemiologic studies: risk factor assessment • cataract • myopia