The Impact of Pollution on Eye Health
Research shows that air pollution can harm eyes, leading to vision disorders such as cataracts and glaucoma. Even lower doses of air pollution can have negative effects on eye health, with fine particles from pollution significantly increasing the risk of these diseases. Studies have found that exposure to PM2.5 pollution may lead to accelerated thinning of nerves related to glaucoma, and high levels of pollution have been linked to a higher risk of needing cataract surgery. Pollution-sapping greenery in neighborhoods has been associated with a lower risk of myopia among children, and experts suggest wearing sunglasses, using eyedrops, and eating an antioxidant-rich diet to counteract the damaging effects of air pollution on the eyes. The best way to protect vision from dirty air is to stop burning fossil fuels.
