UPSC Prelims 2010 Q37: Science & Technology – Health & Diseases
- (a) LASIK procedure is used to correct refractive errors of the eye
- (b) It is a procedure that permanently changes the shapes of the cornea
- (c) It reduces a person’s dependence on glasses or contact lenses
- (d) It is a procedure that can be done on the person of any age
Answer: (d) It is a procedure that can be done on the person of any age
Explanation
LASIK eye surgery: finding the incorrect statement
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis) is a popular laser vision-correction procedure, but it has specific limitations.
| Option | Verdict | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| (a) Used to correct refractive errors | Is correct | LASIK is indeed primarily used to correct refractive errors (myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism) |
| (b) Permanently changes the cornea's shape | Is correct | LASIK works by permanently reshaping the cornea using a laser |
| (c) Reduces dependence on glasses/contact lenses | Is correct | By correcting refractive errors directly, it reduces or eliminates the need for corrective eyewear |
| (d) Can be done on a person of any age | NOT correct | LASIK requires stable vision/eye growth, generally recommending candidates be at least 18 years old with a stable prescription — it is not suitable for any age, especially young children |
LASIK facts:
| Point | Detail |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Correct refractive errors |
| Mechanism | Permanently reshapes the cornea |
| Age requirement | Needs stable eye prescription, typically 18+ years — NOT suitable for any age |
Answer: (d) It is a procedure that can be done on the person of any age.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. This statement is true: LASIK does correct refractive errors, so it's not the answer to this 'not correct' question.
- (b) Incorrect. This statement is true: LASIK permanently reshapes the cornea, so it's not the answer.
- (c) Incorrect. This statement is true: LASIK does reduce dependence on glasses/contacts, so it's not the answer.
- (d) CORRECT. LASIK is not suitable for any age — it requires a stable eye prescription, generally only after age 18.
Key point
LASIK is NOT suitable 'for the person of any age' — candidates need a stable eye prescription, usually only achieved after age 18; the other three statements about LASIK are all accurate.
Remember
LASIK: correct statement about refractive errors, cornea reshaping, and reduced eyewear dependence — but it is NOT suitable for 'any age', needing a stable prescription.
Common mistakes
- Missing the question's framing: it asks for the NOT correct statement, not a correct one.
- Assuming a popular medical procedure has no age restrictions.
- Not knowing LASIK requires eye/prescription stability, generally reached only in adulthood.
Exam tip
LASIK needs a stable eye prescription (18+ typically) — it is NEVER a 'suitable for any age' procedure. Watch for absolute claims like 'any age' as the trap.
Sources
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration — LASIK: what you should know (patient information)
- American Academy of Ophthalmology — Preferred Practice Pattern: Refractive Errors and Refractive Surgery