Never Too Young

Although we want our children to enjoy the outdoors, we must remember that the sun, beautiful and plentiful as it may be, transmits harmful ultraviolet light. UV radiation from sunlight can damage the lens and retina of the eye resulting in conditions that may harm your child's vision later in life. It has been estimated that up to half your sun exposure occurs in the first 18 years of life. Moreover, up through the age of eight, the lens of the eye transmits significantly more of the ultraviolet radiation than as an adult. Therefore, from birth on all people should be conscientious about wearing adequate sunglasses. David Granet, M.D., Director of Ratner Children's Eye Center, likes to say, "Sunglasses are like sunscreen for your eyes." Research shows a link between UV radiation and cataracts, benign growths on the eye's surface, cancer of the eyelids and macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness among older adults. For all ages the most dangerous time for sun exposure is between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. In addition, high altitudes, beaches, snow, and bodies of water significantly increase UV exposure. Remember to protect both your skin and eyes when spending any amount of time in the sun. Enjoy the summer!

 

Helpful pointers in protecting eyes: To provide adequate protection, sunglasses must absorb at least 99% of UV radiation. Darkness of the sunglass lens is not an indication of UV blocking capacity. Sunglasses protect against UV light, because a chemical added to the lens absorbs the rays, not because the lenses are dark. Good sunglasses do not have to be expensive. Babies and children not compliant with wearing glasses should at least wear a wide brim hat. If your child wears prescription eyeglasses, he/she should also have prescription sunglasses. Teach your child never to look directly into the sun, even when wearing sunglasses. Set a good example by wearing sunglasses yourself.