He noted blue light is in part responsible for the 350 million people worldwide who suffer from AMD and cataracts , and this is likely to double within the next thirty years with the aging of the population . “ With new innovations we can see that Essilor not only focuses its efforts on lens protection , but also to eye protection . This is imperative in our mission to help seeing the world better ,” he said . “ This is why Essilor invests more in research and development than any other ophthalmic lens manufacturer out there , exploring new innovative ways to fulfill our mission .”
Centennial Optical has introduced BluTech Lenses to Canada , a new lens technology developed by Eye Solutions , Inc . which filters harmful blue and UV light . BluTech Lenses technology was developed due to the growing evidence that constant exposure to harmful blue and UV wavelength light increases the risk of AMD .
Studies have also shown that exposure to blue light can disrupt sleep patterns by suppressing melatonin .
“ We are exposed to more high-energy blue light both indoors and out than ever before ,” said David Israel , Chief Operating Officer of Eye Solutions , Inc . “ BluTech Lenses provide the protection needed to guard the macula from oxidative stress and a lifetime of exposure from damaging blue light .”
The lenses are made with natural melanin and ocular lens pigment imbedded in the lens material . The company says BluTech Lenses are the first and only eyeglass lenses to have a medical benefit .
BluTech Lenses are designed to maintain natural colour vision and improve contrast sensitivity , making them ideal for everyday wear . The lenses are available in both indoor and outdoor versions . BluTech indoor lenses have a slight tint and protect the eyes from dangerous blue light given off by fluorescent and CFC light bulbs and digital devices .
The outdoor lenses are polarized with 80 % light absorption to eliminate glare , and they protect against blue light and UV radiation emitted by the sun .
This changing face of technology is something the team at HOYA has also been actively addressing . As technology users move away from relying on computers alone to receive information , there will be a sharp increase in the number of handheld devices . This means information can be carried in a pocket or purse and checked more frequently .
“ With modern devices we are using technology in ways we didn ’ t years ago ,” said David Pietrobon , President / General Manager of HOYA Care Canada .
He said lenses need to be developed that support the wearer ' s eye concerns and allow them to complete all their digital tasks .
“ We are now looking at AR coatings to help offset the impact of high energy visible light ,” said Pietrobon .
The recently released Recharge glasses have an AR coating to reduce high energy visible light . This protects against glare and offers enhanced contrasts .
Nulux Active provides enhanced support for the everyday demands of focusing and refocusing at various distances , a requirement for today ’ s visually dynamic wearer using today ’ s modern devices . The Nulux Active 8 has a front surface radial aspherical design with a vertical aspherical zone or area in the bottom part of the lens .
“ Our goal is to provide comfort so the client forgets they are wearing them ,” said Maria Petruccelli , Director of Professional Business for HOYA Care Canada .
She adds the company is always looking for innovative applications to complement eyecare providers ' prescriptions . •
To learn more about Blue Light technology visit www . opticalprism . ca .
38 OPTICAL PRISM | APRIL 2013