Optical Prism November 2015 | Page 17

THE BLUES Adlens®, the global leader in adjustable focus eyewear, has announced a second version of Adlens Interface™­­, the optical solution that protects eyes from 80 per cent of the most harmful artificial blue light1 emitted by digital screens. Artificial blue light is a leading cause of digital eye strain, a physical discomfort that can be felt after prolonged exposure to digital screens. Due to the temporary nature of its symptoms, which include dry eyes, blurred vision, eye fatigue, and headaches, many people do not immediately recognise digital eye strain as a serious issue. However, if left unaddressed it may cause permanent cellular damage to the eye’s retina and lower the production of melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep, causing disruption to the circadian rhythm. ZEISS DuraVision BlueProtect offers protection from the harmful blue light from LED lights, digital devices, TV screens, and computers. “BlueProtect offers protection from harmful blue light, while at the same time allowing the good blue light to pass through. This regulates the circadian rhythm of our bodies,” said Alex Dreu, Direct Sales Support at Zeiss Vision Canada. “Harmful blue light can increase the risk for macular degeneration and disrupt sleep. Patients that use digital devices or computers do so for several hours a With eyes ill-equipped to look at digital screens for the amount of time habitual users’ demand, Adlens Interface is a protective optical solution. The tinted lenses filter out 80 per cent of the most harmful blue light, easing the temporary symptoms of digital eye strain and reducing the chances of long-term damage to the eye. The new variation has an adjustable dioptre range of 0 to 2.75 to allow even easier focus on computers and handheld devices, reducing the strain put on muscles in the eye when focusing on screens for extended periods of time. “We were thrilled with the reaction to Adlens Interface, with patient testimonials commenting on the noticeable reduction of digital eye strain symptoms and improved screen clarity,” said Dr day, therefore exposing their eyes to the risk of blue light.” Viewing digital devices at night can disrupt the brain’s production of melatonin, causing sleep disturbances and a dysfunction of the natural circadian rhythm. Research warns that retinal damage caused by blue light may lead to macular degeneration. Evidence suggests that long-term exposure to blue light may contribute to photochemical damage of the retina (known as “blue light hazard”). ZEISS DuraVision BlueProtect blocks blue light below 440nm. This range is Karen Fitchett, Director of Product Management at Adlens. “User focussed technologies, including computers, smartphones, and tablets, have placed new demands on our eyes to remain focused for prolonged periods of time. We decided to introduce a second design to simplify focusing on the distances required by digital devices to help reduce the strain and discomfort that eye muscles experience. “Protective eyewear is a growing market. However the price, level of protection from blue light offered, and adjustability make Adlens Interface a unique product that will put it in a strong and attractive position among competitors.” Adlens Interface with the 0 to 2.75 dioptre range will be available from November 2015. of particular concern to eye care professionals. Reducing the eye’s exposure to this type of blue light helps prevent retinal cell damage and phototoxicity. “This technology should be offered to every patient using digital devices or spending long hours at the computer,” she said. “We are exposed to harmful blue light every day, and it’s critical we protect against it. It is essential to educate the patient, but also demonstrate the cosmetics of this technology to make sure the patients are happy when they pick up their glasses.” Optical Prism | November -December 2015 17