History and Objective: Due to the existing controversies about epidemiologic characteristics of senile cataract and the relationship between its prevalence and various jobs, this study was performed on all of the hospitalized patients with senile cataract that had undergone surgery for cataract in Matini hospital of Kashan (The only hospital for ophthalmic diseases in Kashan) from 1371 to 1373.

Materials and Methods: The study was performed by existing data method. The records of all patients with cataract were evaluated and those who aged more than 40 years and had no systemic disease such as hypertension, diabetes or ophthalmic disease due to trauma or uveitis were selected. Then their sex, age, occupation and familial history were evaluated and the role of occupations with direct sun exposure in the development of cataract was determined by comparing with a control group whose members were matched for age, sex, past history, underlying diseases and predisposing conditions for cataract development.

Results: From the 1810 patients who referred during the previously mentioned period, 290 individuals did not fulfill the selecting criteria and were excluded. From the remaining 1520 patients, 53% were female and 47% were male. The patient’s age ranged from 30 to 99 years. The sixth decade of life was the most common one for cataract presentation. In general 75% of the affected patients referred and underwent surgery in the sixth decade. Occupations associated with direct sun exposure increases the risk of cataract development by 8%.

Conclusion: Considering the role of direct sun exposure in the formation of cataract that was also confirmed in this study, public education for using hats with suitable edges and dark glasses is recommended of individuals working under direct sun exposure.