Sunglasses help you in two important ways. They filter light and they protect your eyes from damaging ultra-violet (UV) rays. Mounting evidence shows that exposure to UV rays can damage your eyes. Long-term exposure to UV rays can lead to cataracts, macular degeneration, or skin cancer around the eyelids. Sunglasses should be worn when you are outdoors so you can protect your eyes.

You should choose sunglasses that:

• reduce glare
  
  
• filter out 99-100% of UV rays
  
  
• protect your eyes
  
  
• are comfortable to wear
  
  
• do not distort colors.

Am I at risk for eye problems caused by UV rays?

Everyone is at risk for eye problems caused by the sun. Even children are at risk for damaging their eyes. The risk of sun related eye problems is higher for people who:

• spend long hours in the sun
  
  
• have had cataract surgery or have certain retina disorders
  
  
• are on certain medicines, such as tetracycline, sulfa drugs, birth control pills, diuretics, and tranquilizers that increase the eye's sensitivity to light.

What type of sunglasses should I get?

When you buy your sunglasses, look for a label that tells you how much UV radiation the lenses of the sunglasses reflect. Experts say that your sunglasses should block 99-100% of both UV-A and UV-B rays. You should also consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat along with your sunglasses. This will help to block the sunlight from overhead.

Do children need sunglasses?

Yes. Children are at special risk from the harmful effects of UV, since their eyes do not have the same ability as adults to protect from UV radiation.

Here are some helpful suggestions for choosing sunglasses for children:

• Check to make sure the sunglasses fit well and are not damaged,
  
  
• Choose sunglasses that fit your child's lifestyle-the lenses should be impact resistant and should not pop out of the frames,
  
  
• Choose lenses that are large enough to shield the eyes from most angles, Find a wide-brimmed hat for your child to wear along with the sunglasses.
  

Other Topics

Common Eye Myths
Financial Assistance and Vision Care Resources
How Often Should I Get an Eye Exam?
Prevent Blindness Programs and Services in Your State
Signs of Eye Problems in Adults
Who's Who in Eye Care


Complete list of free fact sheets from Prevent Blindness America

For more information on eye problems in adults, call Prevent Blindness America at 1-800-331-2020, or contact us online.

Copyright © 2005 Prevent Blindness America ®

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