Dr.DEEPAK MARIANUS LAKRA

DR. TARUNI KUMARI, Dr.DEEPAK MARIANUS LAKRA, DR. SAROJINI MURMU, DR. SHIRIL SAWAIYAN

Abstract

AIM: To determine the relationship between vitamin C and cataract development.

METHOD: This was hospital based prospective observational study including 56 patients with age between 40 – 60 yrs. Patients were randomly divided into 2 groups. Group A took vitamin C in contrast placebo was given to group B. Patients were followed up to 2.5 years of duration. Vitamin C was calculated by dietary intake assessed by self-administered frequency questionnaire. Plasma vitamin C level was measured. Cataract was evaluated with help of Slit lamp examination & distant direct ophthalmoscopy.

RESULT: Compared to group B, the 2.5-yr risk for cataract formation was 70% lower in group A. Taking vitamin C for this duration lowered the risk of cataract. Group A p value ≤ 0.05 indicated that the study was clinically significant.

Conclusions: Vitamin C intake and serum ascorbate level may be inversely related with risk of cataract formation.

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