Red Wine and Cataracts

In England, the National Health Service performs around 450,000 cataract operations every year. Cataracts (opaque areas in the lens of the eye) are the major cause of blindness, especially in older people. A study now suggests moderate drinking reduces the risk of developing cataracts (https://www.theguardian.com/science/2021/mar/31/british-study-links-alcohol-with-lower-risk-of-developing-cataracts). The study was carried out by Moorfield Eye Hospital (London) and University College of London's Institute of Opthalmology. It analysed life-style data (always a bit dodgy, as it is based on self reports) for almost half a million participants. People consuming up to 14 units of alcohol per week (this is classed as 'moderate') had an around 23% reduced risk of developing cataracts. The study suggested red wine was most beneficial, as it contains antioxidants. Antioxidants may counter cataract formation. Perhaps we will be able get red wine on prescription? Moderation is, however, the key.