Which factors are associated with cataracts? Select all that apply.

Cataracts involve progressive opacification of the crystalline lens, often stemming from oxidative stress and protein aggregation. This degenerative process causes light scattering, leading to painless visual impairment, decreased contrast sensitivity, and myopic shifts in refractive error. Rationale: A. Cataracts are characterized by a gradual, progressive decline in visual acuity rather than an acute event. Sudden vision loss is more indicative of retinal detachment or vascular occlusions. This condition typically manifests over months or years as protein denaturation increases. B. This ocular pathology is primarily an age-related condition resulting from cumulative environmental exposure and metabolic changes. While congenital forms exist, the vast majority of cases occur in the geriatric population due to lenticular fiber compaction and hardening. C. Chronic, unprotected exposure to ultraviolet radiation induces photochemical damage and free radical production within the lens. These stressors accelerate the cross-linking of crystallin proteins, making UV protection a critical preventative measure for ocular health and longevity. D. The primary pathophysiology involves the loss of lens transparency, which appears as a visible milky opacity upon examination. This physical change disrupts the path of light to the retina, resulting in the classic symptom of blurred vision and glare.