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EYE RISKS FROM THE SUN 

One of the most serious threats to your eyes is sunlight. Bright light has been linked to cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, and malignancies in the eye, including cancer, according to studies. Unfortunately, many individuals are still uninformed of sunlight's negative consequences. 

Always remember to protect your eyes from the sun's damaging rays by wearing the appropriate eye protection. 

"Safeguarding your eyes from the sun is just as essential as protecting your skin," says Dr. Nam Tran, Director of the American Eye Center. "You can enjoy the summer by wearing UV-blocking sunglasses." while lowering the risk of disease-related blindness and eye malignancies." 

The bigger the danger, the longer the exposure to strong light. The surface of the eye can be damaged by UV photons reflected from sand, water, or road surfaces.

Tips for protecting your eyes from the sun include: 

1. Don't worry about the hue or darkness of your sunglasses: Choose sunglasses that offer UV protection. Don't let the color or the price mislead you. UV protection is cost-independent. 

2. Select sunglasses that block 99 percent to 100 percent of both UV-A and UV-B radiation. Avoid products that don't state the proportion of UV protection properly. 

3. Select visor types: Sunglasses should ideally filter light from all directions to the temples, preventing sunlight from entering from the side. 

4. Wear a hat: Wear a wide-brimmed hat in addition to sunglasses to assist protect your eyes.

5. Don't be deceived by clouds: the sun's rays may pass through thick and thin clouds alike. Sun damage to the eyes can occur at any time of year, not only in the summer. 

6. Eye protection during peak hours: Sunglasses should be worn whenever you leave the home, but they are especially important in the early afternoon and at higher elevations where UV levels are higher

7. Avoid staring straight at the sun. Even during an eclipse, looking directly at the sun can induce radiation retinopathy, or damage to the retina of the eye caused by solar radiation.

8. Don't forget about the kids: Everyone, including children, is at danger. Wear a cap and sunglasses to shield your child's eyes. Limit your child's time outside between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when the sun's rays are the greatest.