UV stands for ultraviolet radiation (rays). UV rays are an invisible form of radiation that causes sunburn. Besides sunburn, UV rays can also damage your eyes and hurt your vision. There is a strong possibility that UV-related eye disorders will increase over the next decade. This is due to the thinning of the ozone layer and the growing popularity of outdoor activities.
UV-A
UV-A rays can hurt your central vision. It can damage the part of the retina at the back of your eye called the macula.
UV-B
The front part of your eye (the cornea and lens) absorbs most UV-B rays, but these rays may cause even more damage to your eyes than UV-A rays.
UV radiation may cause several different types of eye problems including:
Macular degeneration
Cataracts
Pterygium (a growth on the white of the eye that can eventually block vision)
Skin cancer around the eyelids
Photokeratitis (corneal sunburn)
Yes, everyone (including children) is at risk for eye damage from UV radiation that can lead to vision loss. Any factor that increases the amount of time you spend in the sun will increase your risk. People who work or play in the sun for long periods of time are at the greatest risk.
Both a wide-brimmed hat or cap and UV absorbing eyewear will reduce the amount of UV you are exposed to. Your wide-brimmed hat or cap will block roughly 50% of UV rays. It will also reduce the UV radiation that can enter the eyes from above or around glasses. UV-absorbing eyewear provides the greatest measure of UV protection.
All types of eyewear, including prescription and non-prescription glasses, sunglasses, contact lenses, and lens implants, should absorb both UV-A and UV-B rays. Examine the labels carefully to make sure that the lenses absorb at least 99 to 100% of both types of rays. Avoid products with labels that do not state exactly how much UV the product blocks.
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For more information on protecting your vision for life, call Prevent Blindness America at 1-800-331-2020, or contact us online.
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