Sunglass Sense

September 10, 2007

Seeing the light on eye protection

Los Angeles, Sept. 10, 2007—Sunglasses may be an essential Southern California accessory, but choosing the right pair of shades is about more than fashion. Prolonged exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays can cause permanent eye damage.

Just like using sunscreen to protect the skin, wearing sunglasses that block harmful radiation is important, says John Irvine, M.D., professor of ophthalmology at the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California (USC).

“UV-A and UV-B rays are the ones that are really potentially damaging to the eyes,” he says. “People should look for sunglasses that block at least 98 percent of UV-A and UV-B radiation.”

A recent survey by the Chicago-based organization, Prevent Blindness America, showed that only nine percent of respondents were aware that extended sun exposure can damage vision, and only about 16 percent wore sunglasses while outdoors for long periods of time.

Exposure over years can lead to vision loss from cataracts, cancer or macular degeneration, which affects the part of the eye responsible for sharp, central vision. Ultraviolet damage often occurs in the part of the eye that is not protected by eyelids, Irvine says.

“Individuals who spend a lot of time outside seem to be more at risk,” he notes.

Surfaces such as snow, sand and water that reflect the sun can pose an additional risk. People who spend time in such environments should be especially cautious, he advises. Sunglass frames that wrap around the head will offer additional protection from peripheral UV light.

“You can get good UV protection with relatively inexpensive glasses,” Irvine says. “You don’t need to get the high end stuff.”