Progress in Lens and Cataract Research

Book excerpt: Understanding cataract risk factors is a vital topic in preventative medicine and offers hope to the multitude of people in the world who cannot be aided by an intraocular lens implantation. In the multifaceted process of cataract development ultraviolet radiation is one of the important risk factors. This publication focuses on clinical studies, epidemiologic data as well as experimental approaches to ultraviolet radiation and its effects on the lens. Further articles discuss the cataract epidemiology and the biochemistry of the lens. In addition lens research in the 20th century is evaluated with regard to methods and results. The book is dedicated to Professor K. Sasaki from the University of Ishikawa (Japan) and his research over the last twenty years. Ophthalmologists in practice as well as those involved in lens and cataract research or interested in the mechanisms and the pathogenesis of lens opacification in old age will find a wealth of information in this volume. Likewise, it will be essential to physicians working in public health services, environmental medicine, and those concerned with eye damage caused by radiation.