How can environmental factors contribute to ocular conditions?

Environmental factors play a significant role in the development of ocular conditions, and UV exposure is particularly impactful. When the eyes are exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, it can lead to the development of cataracts, which cloud the lens and can significantly affect vision quality. Additionally, prolonged exposure to UV light can contribute to macular degeneration, a leading cause of vision loss in older adults. Macular degeneration affects the retina, which is crucial for sharp vision, particularly in the central field of view.

This understanding underscores the importance of protecting the eyes from UV rays, such as through the use of sunglasses that block UV radiation. While other options touch on relevant environmental influences on eye health, they do not directly equate to the strong correlation that exists between UV exposure and the development of specific ocular diseases like cataracts and macular degeneration.