title: Invisible light.
abstract: Although light is usually thought of in terms of illumination, it is more appropriately defined as electromagnetic radiation. Ultraviolet light, the shorter wavelength, has been suspected for many years as a factor involved in human cataract formation. The effects of ultraviolet light on the lens appear to be similar to age related changes, resulting in earlier formation of cataracts. Since the effects of ultraviolet light are cumulative over the lifespan, eye protection is an essential component of ophthalmic patient education, especially for children and aphakic patients.
authors.forename: L
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Vader
mesh_terms: D000367:Age Factors; D002386:Cataract / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D015984:Causality; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D013472:Sunlight / Q000009:adverse effects*; D014466:Ultraviolet Rays / Q000009:adverse effects*