Factors associated with cataract surgery among women.

BACKGROUND

Cataract remains the leading cause of visual impairment globally, with women at higher risk than men. Understanding factors associated with cataract surgery in women is crucial for informing targeted interventions and addressing disparities in vision health.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of 1404 women aged 39 years and older using data from the 2007-2008 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). History of cataract surgery was determined by self-report, as collected in the NHANES interview. A purposeful selection algorithm identified candidate factors and multivariate logistic regression, accounting for complex survey design, determined independent associations. Sociodemographic, behavioral, medical, and occupational variables were evaluated.

RESULTS

Of the sample, 9% reported a history of cataract surgery. In adjusted models, older age (odds ratio per year 1.13, 95% CI 1.11-1.16), being divorced (odds ratio 1.52, 95% CI 1.10-2.12), and presence of heart disease (odds ratio 4.79, 95% CI 1.56-14.7) were associated with higher odds of cataract surgery, while employment was associated with lower odds (odds ratio 0.59, 95% CI 0.40-0.86). Race/ethnicity, education, income, health insurance, behavioral factors, and occupational exposures were not significantly associated after adjustment.

CONCLUSION

Advancing age, marital status, heart disease, and employment were independently associated with cataract surgery among U.S. women aged 39 years and older, reflecting the impact of aging, social support, comorbidity, and socioeconomic factors. These findings underscore the need to integrate preventive care and address social determinants to reduce disparities in cataract outcomes.