Most people know that cataracts have something to do with the eyes, but many people don't know much more than that. To get the facts about cataracts, take our true-false quiz.

• True or false: Untreated cataracts are the leading cause of blindness in the world.
• This is true. Over 17 million people in the world are blind due to cataracts.
• True or false: A cataract is what happens when the clear lens of the eye gets cloudy or opaque.
• This is true. When this happens, you may have blurry vision. Sometimes a problem is noticed only when there is either very low or very high intensity light. You may notice a "halo" when you look directly at a light.
• True or false: If you have cataracts, you must have surgery.
• This is false. Surgery is needed only if a cataract is producing symptoms that you don't want, interfering with your lifestyle or your work, or causing a risk of falls or injury.
• True or false: Only older adults get cataracts.
• A trick question - this is false. They can occur at all ages, even in babies. But age-related cataracts are much more common. By age 75, over 90 percent of people will have some cataract changes.
• True or false: Some people may be more likely than others to get cataracts.
• This is true. Some cataracts are age-related. But you are also at more risk if you have other chronic diseases or if you have had injury or trauma to the eye.

For more information about cataracts, ask your health care provider or contact Prevent Blindness America at (800) 331-2020.

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