Why?
They spend more time outside than adults, their lenses allow more light to enter the eye, which allows more UV rays to reach the back of the interior of the eye, the retina. UV damage is cumulative over time and has been associated with cataracts, and macular degeneration among other eye problems.
To help protect the eyes of children, Prevent Blindness America has been educating the public on eye protection since 1908. It advises only purchasing sunglasses with 99-100% UV protection, as those not providing such protection may shade the eyes but allow more rays to enter the eye due to dilation of the pupils. PBA advises that we all wear wide brimmed hats and proper sunglasses.
The organization provides these tips:
1. Only wear sunglasses offering 99-100% UV protection
2. Make sure the glasses fit and shield the eye from all angles.
3. Choose impact resistant lenses made of polycarbonate, never glass, unless prescribed by a doctor.
4. Always check lenses for scratches and other damage.
5. Buy wraparound glasses to protect the eyes and the delicate surrounding skin.
6. Wear them all year round. UV rays reflecting off snow as well as water are "extremely dangerous" says PBA's president Hugh R. Parry.
Where can you get such sunglasses?
Real Kids Shades, a company that manufactures quality shades for infants and toddlers, and older, provides shades offering 99-100 UV protection. They offer infant sunglasses starting art $14.99, and all money goes to fund the Star Pupils program, the new children's eye health and education program of Prevent Blindness America. Call 1-800-331-2020
Enjoy the sun for a lifetime!
Rapp, M.D.
This is good information. I wish that I had gotten into the habit of wearing sunshades as a kid. It's harder for me to remember to do it now or to even keep up with them. I'm thinking of trying those "Transitions" lenses to get some sort of protection, now. I hope it's not too late.
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