From 1980 to 1990 the number of cataract extractions in our department
increased from 268 to 827, i.e. 209% within the same referral area. A
review was made to see if the indications for cataract extraction had
changed in that period. The increase in frequency of cataract extract
ions was statistically significant in all age groups except males aged
60-69. The increase was most noticeable in the older age groups. Preo
perative visual acuities were moderately higher in 1990 compared with
1980. The frequency of second eye surgery did not change in the period
. Females had in 1980 as in 1990 a higher frequency of cataract extrac
tions than males in all age groups > 60 years.