Metabolic Disorders Linked to Increased Cataract Risk: Study

A recent study published in the Metabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders journal revealed that metabolic syndrome (MetS), obesity, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and dyslipidemia are associated with a higher risk of developing Cataract. Preventing or treating metabolic syndrome and its components may serve as a modifiable factor to reduce cataract development.

A large meta-analysis examined the relationship between metabolic syndrome and cataracts after reviewing data from 27 studies involving over million participants. The research analyzed medical literature from MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases through February 2024, included 1,010,014 individuals. Among them, 134,498 had cataracts while 875,516 did not. Overall, cataracts were present in approximately 13.3% of the participants.

Individuals with metabolic syndrome were found to have a 60% increased risk of developing cataracts when compared to those without the condition. This association was statistically significant and consistent across many of the included studies.

When examining individual components of metabolic syndrome, several risk factors emerged. People with higher body mass index (BMI) had a 45% increased risk of cataracts. Diabetes mellitus showed an even stronger relationship, with affected individuals who experienced a 77% greater risk of developing cataracts.

High blood pressure and abnormal lipid levels also played a role. Hypertension was associated with a 23% increase in cataract risk, while dyslipidemia raised the risk by about 38%. Elevated total cholesterol levels were associated with a 25% increase in risk. Higher triglycerides, low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol were also connected with greater odds of cataract development.

These findings suggest that metabolic health may have a broader impact on eye health than previously recognized. While aging remains the most common risk factor for cataract development, metabolic conditions may accelerate or contribute to this process. Overall, the results illuminate the importance of managing metabolic syndrome and its individual components.

Maintaining a healthy weight, controlling blood sugar, managing blood pressure, and improving cholesterol levels could potentially help reduce cataract risk. While further prospective studies are required to clarify the biological mechanisms involved, the evidence indicates that improving metabolic health could play an important role in preserving vision.

Reference:

Tirakunwichcha, P., Siranart, N., Phutinart, S., Pajareya, P., Nakaphan, P., Winson, C., & Roddy, G. W. (2026). Impact of metabolic syndrome on cataracts: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Metabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders, 24(2), 57–64. https://doi.org/10.1177/15578518251407586