Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Practice Exam

How do antioxidants function in relation to cataract formation?

1. They improve hearing loss

2. They promote liver health

3. They reduce oxidative stress

4. They enhance lung function

The correct answer is: They reduce oxidative stress

Antioxidants are substances that help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can contribute to oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body, and it has been linked to various age-related conditions, including cataracts. Cataracts form when there is a clouding of the lens in the eye, often due to oxidative damage. The lens is particularly vulnerable to oxidative stress because it is constantly exposed to light and is composed primarily of water and proteins. When free radicals damage the proteins in the lens, it can lead to the aggregation of those proteins, causing the lens to become cloudy, which impairs vision. Therefore, antioxidants play a crucial role in reducing oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals, which helps maintain the integrity of the lens and may prevent or slow the formation of cataracts. This protective function underscores the significance of antioxidants in promoting eye health and reducing the risk of age-related ocular conditions. The other options do not directly relate to the mechanism by which antioxidants specifically influence cataract formation. Improving hearing loss, promoting liver health, and enhancing lung function do not address the connection between oxidative stress and cataract development.