VisionPlus India

Learn how prolonged exposure affects eye health and the role of UV-blocking eyewear U ltraviolet (UV) radiation is an invisible but powerful force that can significantly impact our eye health. While most individuals are aware of UV exposure’s effects on the skin, such as sunburn and premature ageing, its impact on eye health is often overlooked. In a country like India, where sunlight is intense for most of the year, prolonged exposure to UV rays can lead to severe eye conditions. As a result, it becomes essential for individuals— and particularly opticians—to understand the dangers of UV radiation and promote protective eyewear solutions. UV rays are classified into three categories: UVA: Penetrates deep into the eye, reaching the retina, and is linked to the development LENS TALK UV RADIATION: THEINVISIBLE DANGER of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). UVB: Causes more immediate surface damage, such as photokeratitis (sunburn of the cornea), and is a major contributor to pterygium (tissue growth on the white part of the eye). UVC: The most dangerous type of UV radiation, but it is completely absorbed by the Earth’s atmosphere and does not reach the surface. Despite being invisible, UV radiation is a constant 44 VISION PLUS INDIA EDITION