TRANSITIONS ANNOUNCES TOTAL SUN PROTECTION CAMPAIGN IN CANADA
Transitions Optical has unveiled a new campaign aimed at helping to educate Canadians on the importance of total sun protection for the eyes . The campaign includes the release of new survey findings , an initiative focused on eye sun awareness , a panel discussion and new educational resources .
“ We know that people are concerned about the sun ’ s UV rays , but protecting their skin is often more top-of-mind than protecting their eyes ,” said Patience Cook , director , North America Marketing , Transitions Optical . “ By starting a dialogue around total sun protection , we hope to encourage people to take proactive steps all year long to reduce the harmful effects of the sun ’ s UV rays , like damage to eyesight .”
New research from Transitions Optical found that while Canadians are equally as concerned about protecting their eyes from the sun ’ s UV rays as they are their skin , they are more likely to take steps to protect their skin than their eyes . A December 2016 survey of 1,000 Canadians found that 59 per cent of eyeglass wearers wear protective eyeglasses , but 71 per cent apply sunscreen . The survey also revealed the need for education on the importance of yearround protection , given that more than half of Canadians surveyed think that sun protection is only needed in warmer , summer months .
Transitions Optical is supporting the Canadian Dermatology Association ( CDA ) and the Canadian Ophthalmological Society ( COS ) with an unrestricted educational grant to fund an Eye Sun Awareness Campaign designed to help educate Canadians on the eye health risks associated with UV radiation and how to protect themselves . The campaign will reach millions of Canadians and will feature a dedicated website with videos , infographics , written content , social media and more , which eyecare professionals can share in their practices and through their own social media networks .
To further the conversation on total sun protection , representatives from the CDA and COS will be joined by practicing eyecare professionals and representatives of the Canadian Association of Optometrists and the Canadian Opticians Association for a panel discussion in March . The panel will explore different types of light , options for protection , consumer awareness and misconceptions , and what can be done to further increase education around sun protection . The outcome of this panel discussion will be used in the creation of new educational materials .