Leah Johnson, COA
Many of us wear glasses as an accessory to an outfit or because the latest movie star looks good in them, but most people are unaware of the effects sun exposure can have on the eyes. Studies indicate that long term exposure to UV light can damage multiple structures of the eye and can create problems such as cataracts, macular degeneration, pingueculae and skin cancer of the eyelids. Most of us are used to wearing sunscreen and hats to protect us from harmful UV rays but sunglasses are just as important to protect the eyes.
Anytime the sun is out, even when it is cloudy or snowing, we are exposed to UV rays. Approximately 80% of the sun’s UV rays pass through clouds and reach the Earth’s surface. Invest in a good quality pair of sunglasses and make sure they have 100% UVA and UVB or “UV400” protection.
UV doesn’t discriminate! Children are at risk for the same damage as adults. A child’s pupil is often larger than an adults and their natural lens’ ability to filter out UV rays is often not as effective as an adult. Although it may be a difficult habit to establish, it is just as important for children to wear sunglasses when outside.