VisionPlus India

Cataracts Cataracts are one of the leading causes of blindness in India. They occur when the eye's natural lens becomes cloudy, resulting in blurred vision and, eventually, vision loss. UV exposure accelerates the clouding process, making early prevention crucial. Wearing UV-blocking eyewear from a young age can delay cataract formation and preserve eye health. Pterygium (Surfer’s Eye) Pterygium is a non-cancerous growth on the conjunctiva that can extend to the cornea, causing discomfort and vision obstruction. It is most common among individuals who work outdoors for prolonged periods without proper eye protection. Left untreated, severe cases may require surgical removal. Photokeratitis (Sunburn of the Eye) Often compared to snow blindness, photokeratitis occurs when the cornea is exposed to excessive UV rays. Symptoms include redness, irritation, pain, and temporary vision loss. Although the condition is temporary, repeated occurrences can lead to long-term damage. Macular Degeneration Age- related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive disease that causes loss of central vision. While genetics and ageing play significant roles, UV exposure is a known contributing factor. AMD can make daily activities such as reading and driving increasingly difficult over time. THE ROLE OF UV-BLOCKING EYEWEAR To safeguard vision, opticians should emphasise the importance of UV protection in eyewear. When recommending eyewear, key features to highlight include: UV400 Protection Lenses labelled as UV400 block 100% of both UVA and UVB rays. Customers should be protection depends on the lens material and coatings rather than the darkness of the tint. Early-Onset Eye Conditions: Indian ophthalmologists are reporting a rise in cataract cases among younger individuals, which can be attributed to excessive UV exposure without adequate protection. Understanding these risks allows opticians to better educate customers and recommend effective protective eyewear suited to Indian conditions. EFFECTS OF UV RADIATION ON THE EYES Prolonged exposure to UV radiation is linked to several serious ocular conditions. Some of the most common include: PROTECT YOUR EYES FROM UV DAMAGE • Choose UV400-labeled eyewear for full UV protection. • Wear a wide-brimmed hat for extra shade on sunny days. • Use photochromic lenses for effortless indoor-to-outdoor UV protection. • Ensure children wear UV-blocking sunglasses from an early age. • Avoid looking directly at the sun, even during an eclipse. • Remember, UV damage is cumulative – start protecting your eyes today. UV protection Non-UV protection 46 VISION PLUS INDIA EDITION