Why ultraviolet protection is more important than you think

Most Americans know the importance of UV blocking sunscreen to protect their skin from aging and diseases. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said when it comes to protecting their eyes.

As few as 32 percent of Americans understand how important UV blockage is to protect their eyes from aging and diseases, according to the recent American Eye-Q survey, funded by the American Optometric Association.

“Summer can be a dangerous time for the eyes because people spend so much time outdoors, exposed to the sun,” says Dr. Sue Lowe, an AOA UV protection expert. “Overexposure to ultraviolet rays fast forwards aging of the eyes and increases the risk for serious diseases.”

If the eyes are exposed to excessive amounts of UV radiation over a short period of time, a “sunburn” called photokeratitis can occur. This condition can be painful and includes symptoms such as red eyes, a foreign body sensation or gritty feeling in the eyes, extreme sensitivity to light and excessive tearing. Photokeratitis is usually temporary and rarely causes permanent damage. Ongoing exposure to UV radiation, however, can cause serious harm to the eyes and age them prematurely.

Research has shown that exposure to small amounts of UV radiation over a period of many years increases the chance of developing cataracts, macular degeneration — the leading cause of blindness in adults — and eye cancer. Long-term exposure may also cause damage to the retina, a nerve-rich lining of the eye that is used for seeing.

“In addition to sunglasses, certain contact lenses incorporate an ultraviolet blocker in the lens, which helps further reduce exposure to UV light that can eventually cause cataracts and other eye problems,” says Lowe. “Applying UV-blocking sunscreen around the eye area and wearing a hat will further protect the eyes and help prevent premature aging.”

To provide adequate protection for the eyes, the AOA recommends that sunglasses and protective contact lenses should:

Ÿ Block out 99 to 100 percent of both UV-A and UV-B radiation

Ÿ Screen out 75 to 90 percent of visible light

Ÿ Sunglasses should be perfectly matched in color and free of distortion and imperfection and have lenses that are gray for proper color recognition.

The AOA also urges parents to remember to protect infants’ and children’s eyes from the sun at all times. This is particularly important as kids tend to spend more time in the sun than adults.

A good way to monitor eye health, maintain good vision and keep up to date on the latest in UV protection is by scheduling yearly comprehensive eye exams with an eye doctor. To find an optometrist in your area, or for additional information on how best to protect your eyes from UV radiation, visit AOA.org.