About National Ultraviolet (UV) Awareness Month

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Prevent Blindness America, the nation’s oldest volunteer eye health and safety organization, has declared May UV Awareness Month to help educate the public on the dangers of UV and how to protect the eyes.

For example, in addition to the skin, the eyes can become “sunburned,” known as photokeratitis. The painful condition may result in temporary vision loss for a few days. Pterygium, a growth of tissue that forms on the white of the eye, correlates directly to an individual’s UV exposure. Without treatment, this condition may require surgical treatment.

Alarmingly, a recent survey conducted by N3L Optics found that more than 40 percent of runners and 35 percent of water sports participants do not consistently wear sunglasses during those activities. Only 50 percent of men and 33 percent of women prioritize having the right sunglasses for their sport. Reflective surfaces like snow, water, sand, and asphalt can significantly increase the amount of UV radiation the body is exposed to.

Unfortunately, UV damage is cumulative and has been linked to eye problems later in life, including tumors, cataracts, and macular degeneration, an eye disease that currently has no cure.

The delicate skin around the eye and the eyelids are also susceptible to UV damage. According to the Office of Air and Radiation at the Environmental Protection Agency, basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer affecting eyelids. It may appear on the lower lid, in the corners of the eye, and under the eyebrows.

PBA offers these tips on how to keep your future bright with protection from UV:

Always wear sunglasses that block 100 percent of UV-A and UV-B rays. Sunglasses without UV protection may shade the eyes but cause pupils to dilate, allowing in even more harmful rays.

Sunglasses that block 100 percent UV-A and UV-B rays should always be worn with a brimmed hat. Wrap-around sunglasses are best as they protect the eyes and the skin around the eyes.

Although some contact lenses may offer UV protection, they cannot protect the entire eye and the skin around it. Sunglasses should be made of unbreakable polycarbonate for active lifestyles, especially for children.

Ask your doctor about prescription medication that may cause increased sensitivity to light.

Always wear eye protection when using a tanning bed. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, tanning beds can produce UV levels up to 100 times more than the sun, which can cause severe damage to the external and internal structures of the eye and eyelids.

“We want to stress the importance of protecting the eyes from UV rays, especially to young people,” said Hugh R. Parry, president, and CEO of Prevent Blindness America. “Although we may not notice any ill effects of UV exposure today, it can greatly impact our ability to see clearly in the future.”

For more information on the dangers of UV exposure and how to choose the best sunglasses for adults and children, please visit Prevent Blindness America’s dedicated website at preventblindness.org/protect-your-eyes-sun or call (800) 331-2020.