Dr. Lili Liang Urges Early Cataract Screening as 2.5M Canadians Are Affected

Could You Have Cataracts Without Knowing It? Why Early Screening Matters More Than Ever

Vancouver, Canada – May 19, 2026 / Doctor Lili Optometry /

VANCOUVER, BC, May 14, 2026 — Doctor Lili Optometry, a boutique optometry practice in Vancouver, is calling on Canadians over 40 to prioritize routine cataract treatment screenings as more than 2.5 million Canadians are currently living with cataracts — a number projected to rise to 5 million by 2031. Dr. Lili Liang, OD, MPH, owner and optometrist at the practice, stresses that early detection through comprehensive eye exams is the most effective form of cataract prevention, allowing patients to plan ahead before the condition significantly impacts their vision and independence.

Canada’s Aging Population Driving Cataract Prevalence

Cataracts are the second leading cause of blindness in Canada and the leading cause of treatable vision loss worldwide. According to data cited by the Ontario Association of Optometrists, cataracts affect nearly 2.5 million Canadians, and more than 350,000 cataract surgeries are performed in Canada each year. Globally, cataract prevalence increases dramatically with age — from 3.9% among individuals aged 55 to 64 to 92.6% among those aged 80 and older, according to research published in Eye Health Central. The Canadian Community Health Survey has documented a steady rise in cataract prevalence across all Canadian provinces over the past two decades.

“Many of my patients are surprised when I tell them they have early-stage cataracts — they had no idea because the changes happen so gradually,” said Dr. Lili Liang, OD, MPH, owner and optometrist at Doctor Lili Optometry. “That is exactly why routine screening matters. By the time someone notices their vision is significantly affected, the cataract may have been developing for years. Early cataract treatment planning means we can monitor progression, adjust prescriptions, and ensure the patient is prepared if and when surgery becomes the right step.”

The Optometrist’s Role in Early Cataract Detection

Doctor Lili Optometry specializes in early cataract detection, ongoing monitoring, and complete surgical co-management. Using advanced diagnostic tools including slit-lamp examination and retinal imaging, Dr. Lili can identify cataracts before patients experience noticeable symptoms. The practice provides a full spectrum of cataract prevention strategies, from UV protection guidance and lifestyle recommendations to prescription updates and referral coordination when surgery is indicated. The Canadian Association of Optometrists emphasizes that 75% of vision loss is preventable or treatable, and that comprehensive eye exams are the critical first step in detecting conditions like cataracts before they progress to the point of impairing daily activities such as driving, reading, and recognizing faces.

“Cataract prevention isn’t about stopping cataracts from forming — it’s about catching them early and managing them proactively,” said Dr. Lili Liang. “With today’s diagnostic technology, we can see cataracts at their earliest stages and build a plan that keeps patients seeing clearly for as long as possible. And when surgery is appropriate, cataract surgery is one of the safest and most effective procedures in medicine. The key is not waiting until vision loss becomes a crisis.”

Doctor Lili Optometry offers comprehensive cataract treatment screenings, ongoing monitoring, and surgical co-management, along with cataract prevention consultations at their W Broadway clinic in Vancouver. Appointments can be booked online at doctorlili.com or by calling (778) 545-4313.

About Doctor Lili Optometry

Doctor Lili Optometry is a boutique optometry practice located at Unit 401 – 1338 W Broadway in Vancouver, BC. Founded by Dr. Lili Liang, OD, MPH, a graduate of Salus University with degrees in both Optometry and Public Health, the practice provides comprehensive eye care for patients of all ages. Dr. Lili was recognized as a Distinguished Doctor by the Expert Network and is fluent in English, Mandarin, and Spanish. Doctor Lili Optometry offers services including adult and children’s eye exams, cataract treatment, cataract prevention, contact lens fittings, dry eye care, myopia management, and pre- and post-laser surgery co-management. For more information, visit doctorlili.com.

Media Contact:

Doctor Lili Optometry

Phone: (778) 545-4313

Fax: (604) 873-2263

Email: hello@doctorlili.com

Website: doctorlili.com

Address: Unit 401 – 1338 W Broadway, Vancouver, BC