Previous data from 2001 to 2011 found that the median age for cataract surgery was 67.7 years in the United States. However, this average changes depending on several factors, such as location.

Across the United States, the median age of the first cataract surgery varies by as much as 20 years. In some areas, it is closer to 60, while in other areas, it is closer to 80.

Many factors may influence this variation. For example, people in some areas may be more aware of the benefits of cataract surgery or have lower healthcare costs where they live, making the surgery more affordable.

The data from 2001 to 2011 also showed that those with lower incomes or who live in rural areas were more likely to undergo cataract surgery. This may be because certain types of work can contribute to eye conditions.

For example, exposure to UV light or pollution can be a risk factor for cataracts. People may encounter them more often when working outside or in dense cities.

Similarly, those in rural areas may also work outside more and need to drive long distances more often. This may make cataract surgery more of a necessity than it is for those in cities.

Conversely, the data from 2001 to 2011 showed that Black people were less likely than white individuals to have cataract surgery, even though it is a leading cause of blindness. This was true even among groups that had health insurance coverage.

The analysis suggests a range of factors that may explain this, such as:

  • lower access to transport, making it more difficult to get to and from appointments
  • lower trust in healthcare professionals
  • increased difficulty with out-of-pocket costs, such as prescriptions for medications

However, more research is necessary to determine why this is the case.

Half of adults over the age of 80 in the United States either have cataracts or have had cataract surgery. It is one of the most common surgeries that doctors perform.

The surgery has no age limit, meaning people can still benefit from this treatment even if symptoms are advanced. Generally, doctors recommend undergoing the surgery sooner so that symptoms do not worsen. However, advanced cataracts are still treatable.