More than 94 million people around the world are living with vision impairment caused by cataract, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).

The condition remains the leading cause of blindness globally, contributing to the estimated 2.2 billion people with near or distance vision impairment.

WHO explained that cataract occurs when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, which blocks or distorts light entering the eye, leading to gradual loss of vision.

The organisation also noted that surgery is the only effective treatment for cataract and that timely intervention can help restore vision in most cases.

However, millions of people in low- and middle-income countries remain untreated due to lack of access to quality eye care. Here are five things you need to know about cataract, according to WHO:

• 1. It’s the leading cause of blindness worldwide, affecting millions of adults and children.
• It is cloudiness in the lens of the eye, which makes vision blurry or dim.
• Cataract surgery is the only treatment, and it is highly effective when performed on time.
• It affects both adults and children, though older people are at higher risk.
• Regular eye examinations and early treatment can help prevent severe vision loss.