What we do know is that certain risk factors exist that increase your likelihood of developing cataracts with age. These risk factors include:

• Exposure to ultraviolet light - many studies now suggest that ultraviolet light damages the eye in such a way that it can speed up the formation of cataracts. Certainly, cataracts are more commonly found near the equator and airline pilots appear to be particularly prone to them. Wearing sunglasses and broad brimmed hats can help cut down your exposure to ultra violet light
• Smoking and high levels of alcohol consumption
• Being diabetic - if you suffer from diabetes your risk for developing senile cataract increases by around 40%
• Poor nutrition when you are young
• Family history of cataracts - it appears that the condition can be hereditary
• The use of certain drugs including steroids, tranquilisers and diuretics
• A history of trauma to the eye may make the eye more susceptible to developing cataracts as you age
• Cataracts may also appear as a secondary condition to other eye diseases
• Having a diet high in salt
• Using HRT (hormone replacement therapy) - this issue is still in debate and further research is required before a final conclusion can be drawn
• Age - the older you are, the greater your risk of spontaneously developing cataracts

Cataracts do not usually occur until you are at least 60 years old. This inevitably means that with aging populations, the incidence of cataracts occurring is also going to continue to climb - and so too the number of cataract surgeries performed. This is because surgery is often the only treatment suggested. But, with advent of cataract eye drops, surgery can be avoided. Instead Can-C eye drops offer a gentle, effective and non-invasive way of treating cataracts.