When you start thinking about cataracts, one of the first questions you might ask is how common they really are, especially here in the UK. You may have heard general figures about the ageing eye, but up-to-date national data helps put your own situation into perspective.
Current UK data indicates that cataracts affect the majority of adults over the age of 65, with prevalence estimates exceeding 70% in this age group, and incidence rising steadily with age. Now that 2025 has concluded, we have clearer, more current statistics showing how many people are affected, how often surgery is being carried out, what the waiting times look like, and how trends vary regionally across the UK.
Whether you’re just starting to notice symptoms, planning surgery, or simply wanting to understand the broader picture, knowing the real UK figures rather than outdated global estimates empowers you. In the UK alone, cataract surgery continues to be one of the most frequently performed procedures, with several hundred thousand operations carried out annually, reflecting both an ageing population and increased demand for vision restoration.
As a centre that cares for people every day, London Cataract Centre is committed to giving you a UK-specific, evidence-based snapshot of cataract statistics in 2025. That way, you can see where you fit in the bigger picture.
How Common Are Cataracts in the UK?
Cataracts are primarily an age-related change in the eye, and they become increasingly common as we get older. In broad terms, a significant proportion of people over 65 will develop visually significant cataracts at some point. UK population-based studies estimate that around 30–35% of people aged 65 or over have a cataract that affects vision in one or both eyes, with prevalence rising sharply in older age groups.
These figures help explain why cataracts are one of the single most frequently performed surgical procedures in the NHS. Each year, more than 400,000 cataract operations are carried out across the UK, reflecting the scale of the condition. As a natural part of ageing, cataracts gradually cloud the eye’s lens, reducing clarity in everyday life long before they become truly severe. The sheer volume of cases reflects both the ageing population and the importance of maintaining good vision for quality of life.
Age Distribution: Who Gets Cataracts?
Cataracts can develop in adults at a range of ages, but the prevalence clearly increases with age. People in their 60s and beyond are most commonly affected, and the incidence continues to rise steeply into older age. UK data shows that over 50% of people aged 75 and above have visually significant cataracts, increasing to over 80% in those aged 85 or older. Most patients presenting for surgery are well into their 60s, 70s and 80s, with the average age for first-eye cataract surgery remaining around 75–78 years.
| Age Group (UK) | Estimated Cataract Prevalence | What This Means for You |
| 50–59 years | 5–10% | Early lens changes may begin, often without symptoms |
| 60–69 years | 20–30% | Mild to moderate visual impact becomes more common |
| 70–74 years | 40–50% | Many people start noticing daily vision difficulties |
| 75–84 years | 70–80% | Cataracts are very common and often visually significant |
| 85+ years | 80–90% | Cataracts affect the majority, usually in both eyes |
This pattern reflects the natural progression of protein changes in the eye’s lens over decades. Younger adults may develop cataracts due to trauma, steroid use, or specific eye conditions, but these account for a small minority of cases, typically under 10% of all cataract diagnoses. The vast majority of cases in the UK in 2025 remain age-related.
How Many Cataract Surgeries Are Performed Each Year?
Cataract surgery remains one of the most frequently performed procedures in the UK. Rising demand reflects both demographic change and advances in surgical safety. Looking at the numbers helps place cataract treatment in proper context.
Here’s what current data shows:
1. Cataract Surgery Is One of the Most Common NHS Procedures – We see cataract surgery consistently ranked among the most performed operations within the NHS. This reflects how common cataracts are and how effective surgery has become, accounting for around 10% of all elective surgical activity in some NHS trusts.
2. Annual Numbers Continue to Rise – In the financial year ending 2024, there were over 581,000 hospital admissions for cataract surgery in England alone. This steady increase is closely linked to an ageing population and longer life expectancy.
3. Surgery Is Offered Earlier Than in the Past – Because modern techniques are safe and highly effective, surgery is now recommended when cataracts begin to affect daily activities, rather than waiting until vision is severely impaired. National guidance reflects high success rates and low complication rates, typically above 98% for uncomplicated cases.
4. Population-Based Rates Remain High – The admission rate sits at approximately 5,160 cataract operations per 100,000 people in England. This highlights both high demand and expanded surgical capacity across NHS services.
5. UK-Wide Numbers Remain Substantial – Across the UK, total annual NHS cataract procedures exceed 650,000 when all nations are combined. Private sector activity also plays an important role, accounting for a significant additional proportion of cataract surgeries each year, helping reduce waiting pressures.
| Metric | Latest UK Figures | What This Tells Us |
| Annual NHS cataract surgeries (England) | ~580,000 | Cataract surgery is one of the most common NHS procedures |
| Total UK NHS procedures (all nations) | 650,000+ | Reflects ageing population and high treatment demand |
| Procedures per 100,000 population | ~5,160 | Shows consistently high national treatment rates |
| Share of all elective NHS surgery | ~8–10% | Cataracts form a major part of elective care |
| Year-on-year growth | 3–5% annually | Demand continues to rise steadily |
These figures place cataract surgery firmly at the top of elective procedures. We use this data to reassure patients that cataract surgery is not only common, but also well-established, carefully regulated, and central to maintaining vision and independence across the population.
The NHS Waiting List: How Many Are Waiting?
Even though cataract surgery is common, many patients still experience waiting times before treatment. NHS data from early 2025 suggested that there were approximately 80,935 patients waiting for cataract surgery at that time, with the average waiting time being about 15.6 weeks from referral to treatment.
Importantly, the NHS Constitution sets a target for 92% of patients to begin treatment within 18 weeks of referral a standard that has not consistently been met nationwide since 2015, and remains an ongoing priority for improvement.
These numbers highlight how cataract demand continues to outpace capacity in many areas, driving longer wait times. At the same time, some regions have made concerted efforts to reduce backlogs, and the introduction of community-based eye care pathways aims to help shorten waits.
Regional Variations in Cataract Surgery Rates
National figures give a broad overview, but they don’t show how access and activity vary locally. Across NHS England and the wider UK, cataract surgery rates differ by region due to service availability, population needs, and referral patterns. Published NHS data shows regional cataract surgery rates can vary by more than 20–30% between Integrated Care Systems, even after adjusting for population size. Understanding these differences helps set realistic expectations around assessment and treatment timelines.
Regional variation matters because:
- Service availability differs by location – Capacity, workforce, and clinic infrastructure influence how quickly patients move from referral to surgery. Some regions perform over 6,000 cataract operations per 100,000 people annually, while others fall closer to 4,000–4,500 per 100,000, reflecting capacity differences.
- Demographics shape demand – Areas with older populations or higher prevalence of eye disease naturally see higher treatment volumes. Regions with a higher proportion of residents aged over 75 consistently record cataract surgery rates 1.5–2 times higher than younger regions.
- Referral patterns vary – Higher outpatient attendance, such as in London, suggests earlier or more frequent access to eye care and surgical pathways. London reports some of the highest ophthalmology outpatient attendance rates in England, influencing surgical throughput.
- Geography affects waiting times – Regions with higher demand or fewer resources may experience longer waits, while high-volume centres can progress patients more quickly. Reported median waiting times for cataract surgery can differ by several weeks between regions, depending on local capacity and demand.
By considering local context alongside national data, we can better explain what patients might expect in terms of access, timing, and care pathways.
| Region Type | Surgery Rate per 100,000 | Key Regional Insight |
| High-volume regions | 6,000–6,500 | Greater capacity and older populations |
| National average | ~5,160 | Reflects balanced access and demand |
| Lower-capacity regions | 4,000–4,500 | Workforce or infrastructure constraints |
| London | Higher outpatient attendance | Earlier access and referral pathways |
| Rural areas | Variable | Geography can affect waiting times |
NHS vs Private Surgery Trends
In 2025, many patients continue to choose a combination of NHS and private options to manage waiting lists and access care more quickly. National data shows that approximately 30–35% of NHS-funded cataract surgeries are now delivered through independent sector providers, reflecting growing collaboration to cope with demand.
Private clinics also report shorter waiting times on average than many NHS units. For cataract surgery, private providers often offer treatment within 2–4 weeks of consultation, compared with NHS waiting times that commonly range from 8 to 16 weeks, depending on region and capacity.
At the same time, remaining on an NHS waiting list is still the right choice for many patients, particularly those prioritising cost-free treatment and routine care. The choice between NHS and private pathways continues to be a personal one, influenced by urgency, lifestyle, and access.
Ageing Population and Future Projections
The ageing population is one of the strongest forces shaping future eye care demand in the UK. As demographics shift, cataract services must adapt to meet growing and sustained need. Understanding this trend helps explain why long-term planning matters.
Here’s how population change influences cataract demand:
1. An Ageing Population Is Driving Demand – We see cataract demand rise as life expectancy increases and the proportion of older adults grows. By 2035, the number of people aged over 75 in the UK is projected to increase by more than 40%, directly influencing cataract prevalence.
2. Cataracts Are Most Common in Older Age Groups – Cataract surgery does not prevent ageing of the lens, but it safely addresses its visual effects. Over 70% of cataract procedures are currently performed in people aged 70 and above, where impact on daily life is greatest.
3. Surgery Remains an Effective Solution for Age-Related Change – Although cataracts are age-related, modern surgery restores vision reliably. Success rates exceeding 95–98% for uncomplicated cases support earlier intervention when quality of life is affected.
4. Related Eye Conditions Are Also Increasing – Conditions such as glaucoma, which often coexist with cataracts and primarily affect older adults, are also expected to rise. Glaucoma prevalence is projected to increase by over 20% in the next two decades, adding complexity to future eye care delivery.
5. Long-Term Capacity Planning Is Essential – Population projections point to sustained and growing demand through the 2030s and beyond. Annual cataract surgery volumes are expected to continue rising steadily year on year, making long-term service planning essential.
| Projection Area | UK Estimate | Why It Matters |
| Increase in population aged 75+ by 2035 | +40% | Cataract demand will rise significantly |
| Share of surgeries in people aged 70+ | 70%+ | Cataract care is primarily age-driven |
| Annual growth in cataract surgery demand | 3–4% | Sustained long-term pressure on services |
| Increase in co-existing eye disease | +20% | Adds complexity to cataract care |
| Long-term service need | Rising through 2030s | Planning is essential for access |
We use these projections to support realistic service planning. Demographic change is predictable, and preparing for it protects access, outcomes, and long-term eye health across the population.
Cataract Surgery Outcomes and Safety
While incidence and waiting times are critically important, so too is outcome data. Cataract surgery in the UK is one of the most successful medical interventions, with complication rates that remain very low in modern practice.
According to national audit data, major complications such as posterior capsule rupture now occur in less than 1% of operations, with rates continuing to fall as techniques improve.
| Outcome Measure | UK Data | What This Means for Patients |
| Vision improvement rate | 95–98% | Most patients experience clear benefit |
| Major complication rate | <1% | Serious risks are rare |
| Posterior capsule rupture | <1% | Rates continue to decline |
| Patient satisfaction | 90%+ | High confidence in outcomes |
| Repeat surgery need | <2% | Long-term results are stable |
High success rates mean that over 95% of patients achieve improved vision following surgery, enhancing daily quality of life. These outcomes reflect decades of progress in surgical technique, training, and patient care.
Gender and Cataract Demographics
Understanding how cataracts affect different demographic groups helps put risk and screening into context. While detailed UK data focused specifically on gender differences is still evolving, broad trends are clear when age is taken into account. Cataract remains primarily an age-related condition that affects both men and women as they get older.
Gender and cataract demographics matter because:
- Prevalence increases with age in both sexes – UK population studies show cataract prevalence rising sharply after age 65, affecting around 30–35% of adults over 65 and increasing to over 70% by age 75, with similar trends seen in both men and women.
- Gender-specific data is still developing – Some international studies suggest slightly higher cataract prevalence in women, potentially linked to longevity, but UK-wide gender-specific surgical uptake data remains limited, and differences are modest when age is adjusted.
- Age remains the dominant risk factor – Analysis consistently shows that age accounts for the majority of cataract risk, outweighing sex-based differences in prevalence or progression.
- Regular eye checks are essential for everyone – UK guidance encourages routine eye examinations from mid-life onward, particularly from age 60 and above, to detect cataracts early in both men and women.
By focusing on age-related risk rather than assumptions about gender, we can encourage timely assessment and support better long-term eye health for all adults.
NHS Waiting Time Targets and Realities
Under the NHS Constitution, people referred for non-urgent treatment like cataract surgery should begin care within 18 weeks. Real-world data shows that around 60–70% of patients currently meet this target nationally, with significant variation between regions.
| Measure | Current UK Data | Practical Impact |
| NHS target | Treatment within 18 weeks | Constitutional standard |
| Patients meeting target | 60–70% | Not consistently achieved |
| Average wait time | ~15–16 weeks | Varies by region |
| Patients waiting nationally | ~80,000+ | Demand exceeds capacity |
| Regional wait variation | Several weeks difference | Depends on local services |
Efforts to reduce waiting lists include administrative reforms, community diagnostics, and expanded capacity. Additional cataract clinics and independent sector partnerships have helped shorten waits in some areas, though progress remains uneven across the UK.
Understanding the difference between official targets and actual waits helps you know what to expect when you are told your own referral timeline. Statistics provide context rather than certainty, helping manage expectations realistically.
Cataract Prevalence and Sight Loss
Cataracts continue to play a major role in visual impairment across the UK. What sets them apart from many other eye conditions is that the associated sight loss is usually reversible. Understanding this distinction helps explain why cataract surgery remains so widely performed.
Here’s how cataract prevalence links to sight loss:
1. Cataracts Are a Leading Cause of Reversible Sight Loss – We recognise cataracts as one of the most common causes of reduced vision in the UK, accounting for a significant proportion of age-related visual impairment. Unlike optic nerve or retinal disease, cataract-related sight loss can usually be restored with surgery.
2. Surgical Effectiveness Drives High Treatment Rates – Because cataract surgery reliably improves vision, with success rates exceeding 95% in uncomplicated cases, it is widely recommended once daily activities are affected.
3. High Procedure Volumes Reflect True Need – Recent data shows over 500,000 cataract surgery admissions annually in England alone, reflecting genuine population need rather than over-treatment.
4. Awareness Encourages Earlier Intervention – As awareness grows around the safety and benefits of timely surgery, more patients choose treatment earlier. This is particularly relevant for older adults, where untreated vision loss significantly increases fall risk and loss of independence.
We use these trends to reassure patients that cataract surgery is both common and purposeful. High prevalence does not signal risk; it reflects how effective treatment can reverse sight loss and improve quality of life when delivered at the right time.
Regional Waiting List Improvements
Some UK areas are seeing real improvements in waiting times. For example, initiatives in parts of Wales have reduced waiting times longer than 52 weeks by approximately 30–35%, showing that concerted actions such as additional theatre capacity and revised referral pathways can make a measurable difference.
These regional success stories reinforce that while challenges remain, targeted strategies can improve access to surgery and reduce the burden of long waits. Localised data shows that waiting time improvements can occur within 12–18 months when focused interventions are applied.
Why Cataract Data Matters to You
Understanding cataract statistics helps us place personal experience into a wider, reassuring context. Knowing how common cataracts are, how frequently surgery is performed, and how access varies regionally allows clearer expectations. This knowledge supports more confident, informed conversations about care.
Cataract data matters because:
- It puts personal experience into perspective – Knowing that millions of people in the UK are affected by cataracts and that over half a million surgeries are carried out each year normalises what many people are going through.
- It explains variation in waiting times – Regional differences, with median waits varying by several weeks between NHS regions, help us understand why access and timelines may differ depending on location.
- It validates shared experience – Cataract surgery is increasingly expected and accessible, with the majority of patients ultimately receiving surgery within nationally recommended timeframes, even though delays can still occur in some areas.
- It supports informed decision-making – Being aware of the wider picture helps us ask better questions and choose the right time to seek assessment or treatment, particularly when waiting times exceed 18 weeks.
By understanding the data, we can approach cataract care with greater clarity, confidence, and realistic expectations.
| Data Area | National Insight | Why It’s Reassuring |
| Lifetime cataract risk | Majority over age 65 | Cataracts are common, not unusual |
| Annual surgery volume | 500,000+ | Treatment is routine and established |
| Reversibility of sight loss | Very high | Vision can usually be restored |
| Waiting time variation | Regional | Delays are systemic, not personal |
| Surgical success | 95%+ | Outcomes are highly predictable |
FAQs:
1. How common are cataracts in the UK by the age of 65?
Cataracts are extremely common in the UK once people reach their mid-60s. Current population data shows that more than 70% of adults over the age of 65 will develop cataracts in one or both eyes. This reflects natural age-related changes in the eye’s lens rather than illness, and it explains why cataracts are considered a normal part of later life rather than an unusual diagnosis.
2. Does having early cataract changes mean surgery is needed straight away?
No, early cataract changes do not automatically mean surgery is required. Many people have mild lens clouding for years before it significantly affects daily activities such as driving or reading. Surgery is usually recommended only when vision problems begin to interfere with quality of life, not simply because cataracts are present.
3. How many cataract surgeries are performed in the UK each year?
Cataract surgery is one of the most frequently performed operations in the UK. Recent data shows that more than 650,000 NHS cataract procedures are carried out annually across all UK nations, with additional surgeries performed privately. These high numbers reflect both an ageing population and the proven safety and effectiveness of modern cataract surgery.
4. Why are NHS waiting times for cataract surgery still long in some areas?
Waiting times remain long in certain regions because demand for cataract surgery continues to exceed available capacity. Although cataract surgery is routine, workforce limitations, theatre availability, and regional population differences all affect how quickly patients can be treated. This means waiting times can vary significantly depending on where you live.
5. What is the average NHS waiting time for cataract surgery in 2025?
As of early 2025, the average NHS waiting time from referral to cataract surgery is around 15 to 16 weeks. While the NHS target is treatment within 18 weeks, this standard is not met consistently across all regions. Some patients are treated sooner, while others may wait longer depending on local demand and resources.
6. Why do cataract surgery rates vary so much between UK regions?
Regional variation occurs because different areas have different population age profiles, service capacity, and referral pathways. Regions with older populations naturally perform more cataract surgeries, while areas with limited ophthalmology services may see longer waits and lower treatment rates. These differences are systemic rather than patient-specific.
7. Is cataract surgery still considered safe despite the high volume performed?
Yes, cataract surgery remains one of the safest and most successful procedures in modern medicine. UK audit data shows that more than 95% of patients experience meaningful vision improvement, with serious complications occurring in fewer than 1% of cases. High surgical volumes actually support safety by maintaining surgeon experience and refined clinical protocols.
8. Are cataracts a major cause of sight loss in the UK?
Cataracts are one of the leading causes of reduced vision in the UK, particularly among older adults. However, unlike many eye conditions, cataract-related sight loss is usually reversible. This is why cataract surgery plays such a central role in preserving independence, mobility, and quality of life in later years.
9. Does gender significantly affect cataract risk in the UK?
When age is taken into account, cataract risk is broadly similar for men and women. Some studies suggest slightly higher prevalence in women due to longer life expectancy, but age remains the dominant factor. For this reason, regular eye examinations are recommended for everyone from mid-life onwards, regardless of gender.
10. How do UK cataract statistics help patients make better decisions?
Understanding national and regional cataract statistics helps place individual experience into context. Knowing how common cataracts are, how successful surgery is, and why waiting times vary allows patients to approach care with realistic expectations. At London Cataract Centre, we use up-to-date UK data to support informed discussions, helping you feel confident about when and how to move forward with assessment or treatment.
Final Thoughts: Putting UK Cataract Statistics Into Perspective
Looking at the 2025 UK cataract statistics, one message stands out clearly: cataracts are extremely common, highly treatable, and very well understood within modern eye care. High prevalence in older age groups, rising surgery volumes, and strong safety outcomes all reflect a condition that is part of normal ageing rather than an exception. Understanding national data on prevalence, waiting times, and outcomes helps you see your own situation in context and approach decisions with realistic expectations rather than unnecessary concern.
If you’re looking to enhance your vision or need personalised guidance, our specialist team at London Cataract Centre is here to help. We use current UK-specific data alongside careful clinical assessment to guide clear, evidence-based conversations, so you can move forward with confidence and clarity at every stage of your cataract journey.
References:
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