Optical Prism May 2017 | Page 21

Sunglasses are a smart fashion accessory . Not only can they be stylish – there are sunnies to match every personality – but they are also critical to protecting the eyes from the potentially damaging ultra-violet rays from the sun . Several organizations , including The Vision Council , Canadian Cancer Society and the Canadian Ophthalmological Society have spent years educating the public about the importance of wearing sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection year-round when outdoors in daytime .
“ UV protection is not just for the skin . Just like the skin , the eyes can be damaged by the cumulative effect of years of sun exposure , which may lead to increased risk for cataracts , clouding of the lens of the eye , macular degeneration and in some cases cancer of the eye or eyelid ,” says Dr . Allan Slomovic , president of the COS .
“ Children and adolescents are especially vulnerable to the sun ’ s rays because their ocular lenses aren ’ t yet mature and can ’ t filter UV light as effectively as adults , causing damage to the retina . Just as sunscreen and clothing coverage are essential elements of a sun protection regimen , so are protective sunglasses .” But despite the warnings , it appears some people just aren ’ t getting the message .
In a 2016 survey , The Vision Council found that while 74 per cent of people report having concerns about UV eye exposure , only 31 per cent wear sunglasses each time they go outside . The organization is encouraging eyecare professionals to spread the message about the importance of UV protection by posting information and photos of sunwear on their social media platforms up to and on National Sunglasses Day , which this year falls on June 27 .
“ National Sunglasses Day serves as a reminder that sunglasses are a major health necessity – regardless of whether it ’ s sunny or cloudy , warm or cold ,” The Vision Council says .
Here are some sunglasses that not only look great but will protect the eyes from UV light :
Mia ( Crystal Beach )
Mia ( Cookies and Cream )
Toni ( Cookies and Cream )
NEUBAU
Neubau , distributed in Canada by the Canadian Optical Supply Co . Ltd ., has launched three new models of sunglasses , which pay tribute to the classic shapes of past icons ' favourite glasses while channeling an urban trendsetter ' s taste for quality and design .
The new shades include the Mia , a cat ' s eye-shaped frame which recalls Hollywood greats like Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn , and the Toni , a tongue-in-cheek nod to classics of movie history such as John Goodman in “ The Big Lebowski ” or Tom Cruise in “ Top Gun .” More information : neubau-eyewear . com or www . canadianoptical . com
Optical Prism | May 2017 21