Aussies blinded by UV damage

Despite the warnings, only ten per cent of Australians consider eye damage as one of the harmful effects of sun exposure, a recent survey has found.

The annual Newspoll survey,* asked respondents to identify the harmful effects of extended exposure to the sun. Only ten per cent of respondents mentioned eye damage compared with 81 per cent who mentioned skin cancer and 39 per cent who mentioned sunburn.

Optometrists Association Australia’s professional services manager, Shirley Loh, said the survey also revealed that the community’s awareness about the dangers of sun damage to the eyes hasn’t significantly changed since 2005.

“This low level of awareness about the harmful effects of sun damage to the eyes is frightening, especially given that the long term effects of unprotected UV exposure can include macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness, as well as cataracts, and even cancer.

“Protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays is as simple as making UV protection part of your everyday routine,” said Ms Loh.

“Sunglasses don’t need to be expensive. As long as they fit well and meet Australian Standards your eyes will be protected. If you are a prescription lens wearer, photochromic lenses that automatically adjust to changing light conditions will provide convenient UV protection.”

“The earlier UV-related conditions such as macular degeneration are detected, the better the chance of successful treatment.”

“Your optometrist can give you the best advice about suitable UV protection to suit you and your lifestyle,” said Ms Loh.

Optometrists Association Australia offers these top tips to avoid UV radiation:

•    Make UV protection, including sunglasses, part of your everyday routine.
•    Ensure your eye protection meets Australian standards.
•    For the best eye protection, choose sunglasses that have a bridge setting as close to your eyes as possible without touching your eyelashes.
•    Photochromic lenses that automatically adjust to changing light conditions provide convenient UV and glare protection for prescription wearers.
•    Wear a hat with a wide brim
•    Be careful when choosing sunglasses for children; sometimes models that appear to be sunglasses are ‘toys’ and they provide no protection.
•    If you have an existing lens prescription, check that you are up-to-date with your sunglasses prescription.
•    Avoid the sun between 10am and 4pm, when the sun’s effects are strongest.