Cataract detector

A compact system developed for the space programme can provide early detection of cataracts, the leading cause of vision loss.

Researchers from the US National Eye Institute (NEI), part of the National Institutes of Health, and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) collaborated to develop the system, which can be used to conduct a simple, safe eye test for measuring a protein related to cataract formation.

If subtle protein changes can be detected before a cataract develops, people may be able to reduce their cataract risk by making simple lifestyle changes, such as decreasing sun exposure, quitting smoking, stopping certain medications and controlling diabetes.

'By the time the eye's lens appears cloudy from a cataract, it is too late to reverse or medically treat this process,' said Dr Manuel B Datiles, NEI's medical officer. 'This technology can detect the earliest damage to lens proteins, triggering an early warning for cataract formation and blindness.'