Depression and cataract
The presence of cataract was examined as a possible risk factor for depressive symptoms and for lower cognitive function in a large-scale Irish study


Dermot McGrath
Published: Monday, April 3, 2017


The association of cataract and depression score was not solely driven by ageCataract was also associated with lower cognitive function in unadjusted analysis at baseline and at follow-up two years later, but this association was removed after adjustment for covariates. “Pseudophakic, versus phakic, status of study participants did not show strong evidence of association with depression, or cognitive function. Unfortunately, we could not determine an effect of cataract surgery, as we did not follow depression score in participants before and after surgery. This could be an area for further research,” said Dr Quigley. "Interestingly, we found that the association of cataract and depression score was not solely driven by age, there are other factors underlying the association, vision-related quality of life may be an important," The fact that the presence of cataract was lower than previous studies may be due to self-reported nature of the data, said Dr Quigley. “The strengths of the study were a large sample, and that multiple variables were assessed, while the weaknesses were the likely underestimation of cataract incidence, and the lack of visual acuity data or slit lamp examination,” she said. Contact: quigleyclare@gmail.com
Tags: cataract, depression
Latest Articles
Beyond the Numbers
Empowering patient participation fosters continuous innovation in cataract surgery.
Thinking Beyond the Surgery Room
Practice management workshop focuses on financial operations and AI business applications.
Picture This: Photo Contest Winners
ESCRS 2025 Refractive and Cataract Photo Contest winners.
Aid Cuts Threaten Global Eye Care Progress
USAID closure leads retreat in development assistance.
Supplement: ESCRS Clinical Trends Series: Presbyopia
Nutrition and the Eye: A Recipe for Success
A look at the evidence for tasty ways of lowering risks and improving ocular health.
New Award to Encourage Research into Sustainable Practices
Sharing a Vision for the Future
ESCRS leaders update Trieste conference on ESCRS initiatives.
Extending Depth of Satisfaction
The ESCRS Eye Journal Club discuss a new study reviewing the causes and management of dissatisfaction after implantation of an EDOF IOL.
Conventional Versus Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery
Evidence favours conventional technique in most cases.