As the public becomes increasingly aware of the serious health consequences of sun damage, more and more people are investing in protective measures.
Since the eyes are the most vulnerable part of the body to UV radiation, reports show that more and more respondents are using protective sunglasses on a regular basis. Specifically, 7 in 10 American adults said they wear sunglasses whenever they are outside. In addition, 78% of respondents said they own between one and four pairs of sunglasses.
Unfortunately, other studies show that the same sun protection is not as widespread among children. Research from the Optometrist Network suggests that only 5% of children always wear sunglasses when outdoors. This is despite evidence that children’s eyes are much more susceptible to sun damage.
What happens to children’s eyes under the sun?
Like the rest of their bodies, children’s eyes are still growing, so the natural “filter” in the eyeball that acts as a natural UV barrier is not fully developed. Children also tend to have larger pupils, allowing more potentially harmful light to enter. In the long run, children who do not receive adequate eye protection are at a much higher risk of developing serious eye conditions. These include certain cancers, cataracts, and macular degeneration. It’s worth noting that the latter two eye conditions are usually triggered by age, but children whose eyes have been exposed to UV rays may experience changes to the retina and conjunctiva. Worldwide, cataracts and macular degeneration are also two of the most common causes of preventable blindness.
Experts say children are also more vulnerable to the sun because they don’t understand how serious overexposure can be. This often means they stay out in the sun for far too long without protection because they don’t know the dangers. Additionally, young children may not have the right words to communicate when they feel something is wrong. On average, just one minute of sun exposure can cause damage to the eyes. By the age of 18, most people have already received about 80% of their lifetime UV exposure.
How parents can take action
By nature, most children spend more time outdoors than adults, so it’s important that they get their own sunglasses as early as possible and learn to make them a habit. Often, kids’ sunglasses are more of an accessory than a safety feature. For best results, look for sunglasses that are certified and offer 100% UV protection. The frame material is also important, as children can damage their glasses more easily. Polycarbonate is a good frame option as it is lightweight yet durable. Should your child already have vision problems, prescription sunglasses are a must as they offer correction and protection. At retailer FramesDirect, you’ll find that these sunglasses also come with different lens coatings for maximum comfort. This means your child can choose between options such as gradient, mirrored or polarized, depending on what activity your child is doing outdoors. Brands that offer these include Ray-Ban, known for many stylish models such as Aviators and Wayfarers that your child can feel confident in.
If your child is athletic, it’s especially important that sunglasses fit well so they don’t fall off during activity. Sports injuries in children generally come in the form of sprains or strains, as well as heat-related accidents, so it’s important to equip your children with the right measures to combat these. Sunglasses can help by reducing the physical strain of heat while protecting the eyes from debris and impact. Brands like Oakley are a great choice, as they offer models specifically adapted for younger users. If children learn the value and role of wearing sunglasses from a young age, they are much more likely to protect their vision and eye health as they grow into adulthood.
