A student-run nonprofit at the University of Hawaii's medical school is giving free cataract surgery to people who can't afford it — good news for low-income and uninsured patients losing their sight.

• The group started in 2021 with 8 patients and has now treated over 200 people in five years.
• Cataracts hit Hawaii residents much younger than on the mainland — as early as the 40s and 50s instead of the 70s and 80s.
• Strong year-round sun is the cause, and surfers face extra risk from glare bouncing off the water.
• Anyone whose vision can no longer be fixed with glasses or contacts should get checked, and yearly eye exams are advised.
• Surgery no longer requires waiting for a cataract to fully develop — it can be done once daily life is affected.

Outlook: Registration is closed for this year, but the program plans another round of free surgeries and is taking sign-ups and donations for the next cohort.