Sun protection - Sunglasses

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UV radiation can damage eyes Eyes, like skin, can be damaged by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Repeated exposure of unprotected eyes to UV radiation can cause short-term and long-term damage. Short-term complaints or mild irritations Short-term complaints include excessive blinking, swelling or difficulty looking at strong light. Exposure also causes acute photokeratopathy – sunburn of the cornea.

Long-term damage
Exposure to UV radiation over long periods can also result in more serious damage to the eyes including:
cataracts (cloudiness of the lens)
pterygium (an overgrowth of the conjunctiva on to the cornea)
solar keratopathy (cloudiness of the cornea)
cancer of the conjunctiva (the membrane covering the white part of the eye)
skin cancer of the eyelids and around the eyes

How sunglasses protect the eyes
Sunglasses reduce the amount of UV radiation that reaches the eyes. Close fitting, wrap around styles prevent UV rays from entering through the sides and top of sunglasses.

Australian standards for sunglasses and fashion spectacles
All sunglasses sold in Australia are labelled to indicate to which AS/NZS 1067:2003 category they comply, i.e, sunglasses or fashion spectacles.

Choosing sunglasses
Always choose sunglasses that meet the Australian Standard (AS/NZS 1067:2003). These prevent at least 95% of UV radiation from reaching the eyes. Sunglasses that comply with AS/NZS 1067:2003 can also have an Eye Protection Factor (EPF) rating from 1-10. Sunglasses with EPF 9-10 transmit almost no UV rays.

Choose close fitting, wrap-around style sunglasses to stop UV radiation entering around the sides and tops of the lenses. Coloured glasses are less effective at blocking UV radiation, and mirror finishes by themselves don't significantly reduce UV radiation absorption.

Spending more on sunglasses does not necessarily guarantee a better quality product. Low cost sunglasses that comply with the sunglasses standard, provide excellent protection from UV rays.

When to wear sunglasses
Wear sunglasses whenever the levels of solar UVR are high. UVR is greater during the middle hours of the day, greatest at high altitudes and increased by reflection from the surrounding surfaces. Sand and water surfaces increase exposure significantly, as do snow and ice.

High UV levels can exist even on overcast days when the visible light is decreased.

Tasmanians with medical conditions that make them more susceptible to UVR may be at a greater risk of eye damage and should also use hats and sunglasses. They should discuss their condition and eye protection with their doctor.

For more information contact the Cancer Council Helpline 13 11 20