While much of the discourse around air pollution centers on respiratory and cardiovascular impacts, a lesser-known consequence is its effect on eye health—often subtle but far-reaching. From short-term fatigue and dryness to chronic conditions like glaucoma and cataracts, prolonged exposure to pollutants such as PM2.5, nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and sulfur dioxide (SO₂) is taking a silent toll on vision. As urban populations continue to grow and environmental degradation worsens, ophthalmologists warn that unchecked exposure could result in irreversible ocular damage.
