Q&A: Eye care providers must educate patients on protecting their eyes during summer
The Lighthouse Guild has declared that July is National Ultraviolet Safety Month, and there are a number of ways eye care providers can advise patients to protect their eyes.
Andrea Zimmerman, OD, a low vision specialist at the Lighthouse Guild, commented on the use of eye wear that protects against UV light.
“It’s important to choose eye wear that provides both UVA and UVB coverage, specifically those labeled 100% UV protection or UV 400,” Zimmerman said on the Lighthouse Guild’s website.
Healio also spoke with Breanne B. McGhee, OD, FAAO, a primary care and pediatric optometrist at Ochsner Health in New Orleans and assistant professor and clinical adjunct at Pacific University College of Optometry, who shared recommendations she gives her patients.
Healio: What are the most common eye issues caused by lack of sun protection?
McGhee: As summer temperatures rise, so do risks associated with UV exposure. It is important to protect the eyes from the sun because failure may result in long-term ocular and systemic consequences such as cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, skin cancers and dry eye.
Several research studies have shown that protecting eyes from sun exposure significantly reduces the risk for developing these conditions. Knowing that, it is important to educate patients to pull out those sunglasses and shield their eyes from the sun.
Healio: How should patients protect their eyes this time of year?
McGhee: When packing your summer or work bags, the first item included should be your sunscreen, followed by your UV-protecting sunglasses. Bucket and brim hats are also important to block direct sunlight from above. Wraparound and polarized sunglasses may assist with excessive glare in highly reflective spaces. Currently, several contact lenses brands offer UV protection properties within their materials.
Patients should speak with their eye care providers about which options may be best for them.
Healio: Are there more advanced steps that experts recommend for protecting eyes from sun damage?
McGhee: Annual comprehensive eye exams with your local optometrists and ophthalmologists are essential. Early intervention is key. With that, if any ocular complications or diseases are clinically observed or progressing, patients will be cared for and managed appropriately. Through routine care, we will be able to assess vision and ocular health. Not doing so may potentially have long-term consequences.
Healio: How else can eye doctors help patients prioritize sun protection?
McGhee: We can help protect our patients through effective patient education each year. When talking to patients, emphasize the importance of protecting eyes from the sun. Additionally, shine light on the potential harmful effects of not protecting eyes from long-term UV exposure. Education tools such as pamphlets, clinic displays and posters, newsletters and social media are great delivery methods doctors can use to educate patients.
Healio: Is there anything else you would like to add?
McGhee: We often take for granted our eyes and vision. Make wise choices today to avoid those health consequences tomorrow. It is important to protect your eyes just like we do the skin, especially during summer months. Lastly, make it a habit: When you pull out your sunscreen, remember to also pull out those sunglasses.
Reference:
- Lighthouse Guild. Protect your eyes this summer. https://lighthouseguild.org/protect-your-eyes-this-summer/. Accessed June 28, 2023.
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