NWHRC Issues Report Alerting Consumers on Protecting Eyes from Sun

Red Bank, NJ—The National Women's Health Resource Center (NWHRC) has published its latest Fast Facts about how the sun's rays affect one's eyes and offers consumers advice on how to lessen the risk of developing eye conditions such as cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.
Consumers are advised to wear sunglasses that transmit no more than 1% UVB and UVA rays. They should look for sunwear that blocks 99% of UV radiation (UVR), according to "The Sun & Your Eyes: What You Should Know" report.
Consumers should also consider choosing lenses that cover the eye completely. Wrap-around lenses are preferable. They should also be aware that gray lenses provide the greatest protection. If one spends a lot of time in the sun, darker lenses are better than lighter ones.
The report also mentions the dangers of UV rays reflected off different surfaces, such as snow, sand, water, or concrete. Studies have shown that grass, soil, and water reflect less than 10% of UV radiation, whereas fresh snow reflects up to 80% of UV rays.
The time of day also has an effect on UVR exposure. At noon, the UVR dose may be 10 times higher than the dose 3 hours earlier or later. The report was supported by aii educational grant from Vistakon.

Ophthalmology Times, 8/15/2006