• Cataracts are a natural phenomenon that accompanies aging, but certain measures can slow their development.
• Preventive measures are important because cataracts progress over a long period of time. When diagnosed in people between the ages of 60 and 70, the disease may have started more than 20 years ago.

No smoking. Smokers can reduce their risk of senile cataracts by quitting.

Protect your eyes from the sun. It is recognized that excessive exposure to the sun causes damage to the lens that can accelerate the onset of cataracts. It is therefore important to wear a hat wide brim and eyeglasses sun protection against UVA and UVB rays. Limiting exposure to microwaves and X-rays and infrared rays could also slow the formation of cataracts.

Eat enough fruits and vegetables. The antioxidants they contain help prevent cataracts. Canada’s Food Guide recommends that women consume 7 to 8 servings per day; and for men, from 7 to 10 servings. See also the Complementary Approaches section.

Control your blood sugar in case of diabetes. People with diabetes need to closely monitor their blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels to prevent eye problems. For more on this, see the Complications of diabetes sheet.

Protect your eyes at work and at play. Cataracts from certain injuries can be prevented by wearing proper protection at work and during sports.

Treating an infection during pregnancy. In case of infectious disease (genital herpes, syphilis, etc.), pregnant women should consult their doctor. It is possible to reduce the risk of the infection affecting the newborn baby.