Cataracts in Cancer Patients: At the Intersection of Oncology and Ophthalmology

Purpose: This study investigates the demographics, systemic diseases, and cataract types in cancer patients to improve clinical management.Methods: A retrospective case-control study was conducted on 330 cataract patients. Among them, half had both cataracts and cancer, while the other half had only cataracts. Demographic data, visual acuity, and systemic disease status were recorded. Cataracts were classified using LOCS III, and statistical analysis was performed with SPSS (p < 0.05).Results: The study included 165 cancer patients and 165 non-cancer patients with cataracts. Cancer patients were significantly younger (mean age: 61.63 ± 9.57 years) than non-cancer patients (mean age: 70.10 ± 6.09 years) (p = 0.01). Posterior subcapsular cataracts were more prevalent among cancer patients (55%), whereas nuclear cataracts were more frequent in the non-cancer group (37%). Systemic diseases were significantly more prevalent in the control group (76%) compared to cancer patients (60%) (p = 0.0021), with diabetes being the most common comorbidity in both groups.Conclusion: Cataracts develop at a significantly younger age in cancer patients compared to non-cancer patients, with posterior subcapsular cataracts being more prevalent in the cancer group. Cancer and its treatments may accelerate cataract formation. Regular ophthalmologic evaluations are crucial for the early detection and management of cataracts in cancer patients, ultimately enhancing their quality of life.