Got Sunglasses? Fashion for Health

Sunglasses are more than summer fashion. Defending against cancer tumor risk and other eye disease is easier than fixing eye damage. Ultraviolet (UV) ray exposure from the sun and tanning booths causes cataracts, eye cancer tumors and macular degeneration. Avoidance is the best prevention. That does not mean stay indoors.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology is working hard to spread this pro-active health news. Sign up on-line with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for free daily alerts on UV index, which rates UV strength from 1 (low) to 11 and up ( extreme). The Daily UV Alert can help an individual better plan when to be outdoors in different parts of the USA.

To specifically protect eyes alone, sunglasses with 100% UV protection are recommended for all ages. Even though babies and small children won't keep sunglasses on, consistently offering and modeling the healthy behavior sets up a lifetime habit in eye protection.

Lens darkness, color or price tag is not important to eye health, but are only personal preference issues. Expensive sunglasses are not necessarily offering better protection than cheap ones. If using tanning beds or lamps, use the eye protection especially made for those tan devices. Only the 100% UV protection is required for defending eyes against UV damage.

Cost Free Eye Protection

There are some free eye and skin protections often overlooked. Use the shade of a building, umbrella or tree whenever outside. If possible, do outside activities in the morning before 10 a.m. and in the evening after 4 p.m., when the sun's UV rays are not so harsh on skin or eyes.

Clothes are a necessity of life, so use what's already in the closet to dress for overall UV safety. Baby, child, teen and elderly eyes are most vulnerable. A wide brimmed hat is a great start to a lifetime practice of shielding eyes and face from the sun's UV rays for all ages, if sunglasses are not available or in the immediate budget.

Bottom Line

One pair of eyes must last a lifetime. Harmful UV rays can cause eye cancer, cataracts and macular degeneration.

All ages need to protect eyes from the harmful UV rays by wearing 100% UV protected sunglasses in all seasons. Price or color of the lens does not make sunglasses better - those details are only fashion.

Provide double defense duty for eyes and skin by wearing a wide brimmed hat, which protects eyes, top of head, face and neck. It is never too early or too late in life to start a new fitness habit.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace or infer replacement of patient consult with a licensed medical professional in the eye health specialty.

Sources

http://www.emaxhealth.com
http://eyedocnews.com
http://ahsc.arizona.edu