Are parents 'ignoring eye sun danger'?
In an article today published on the BBC website optometrists warn of the danger cheap sunglasses can have on eyes.
In a poll of 2,000, nearly a third do not buy their children sunglasses and of those that do only a quarter buy from a trusted brand. The College of Optomotrists recommends choosing sunglasses that have the CE mark as this ensures quality protection from UV light. Surprisingly, wearing darkened glasses without the CE mark can be worse than nothing at all. This is because the pupils dilate to respond to the darkness and as a consequence let in more of the harmful UV.
Dr Susan Blakeney is reported to have said "Sunglasses don't need to be expensive to offer good protection but it is important for parents to check that the pair they buy carry a CE mark." However, for those children who are not keen to wear glasses a sunhat to shade the eyes will also offer protection.
Consultant paediatric ophthalmologist Michael Clarke said the issue was controversial. The Royal College of Ophthalmologists recommends children wear protective sunglasses if they are likely to be exposed to a lot of UV light, such as during a day at the beach. Very young children should not be exposed to bright sunshine at all, says the college.
To read the full article from the BBC please click HERE
We are keen to hear your views on this article. Please submit your comment below.
