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For many years, prevention has been the main focus of lenses and frames manufacturers, but today new alarms are drawing ophthalmologists’ attention, in particular with reference to sunbeds, coffee and cigarettes. According to Francesco Loperfido, responsible for the General Ophthalmology Center at the San Raffaele hospital in Milan, “a long exposure to sunbeds’ rays may cause harm to both skin and the eyes”. The injuries which can be caused to the eyes by a long exposure include keraconjunctivitis and, in the most sever cases, the opacity of the crystalline lens. Besides, SOI experts reminded that smoke may put sight at risk and the disease is called alcoholic neuritis -as Antonio Mocellin, SOI vice-president, explained. Alcohol and smoke, but also too much caffeine, may cause an ocular intoxication. Caffeine and nicotine, in fact, restrict the veins and, in the end, produce damages to the optic nerve; as a consequence, eyesight is reduced and a visual field deficit appears which, if neglected, can lead to very severe injuries. In addition to the usual "enemies", new factors must now be taken into account, due to the many and continuous changes in lifestyle. Those who work outdoor, for example, are more exposed to this kind of risks: masons, refuse-collectors, fishers, or even postmen. A market section could develop within the optic field, similar to those already present in other product categories, like clothing, shoes, gloves, etc. In conclusion, many are the dangers to which the eyes are exposed. It is the experts’ duty to inform and help to prevent the patient’s eyes from severe damages.

Tratto da B2eyesmagazine maggio 2008

Although UV rays are known as the “long-term enemy” of the sight, today more and more attention is focused on blue light, particularly harmful to minors and people over the age of 55. A study from Cnr Biometereology Institute, carried out by the Sight Defense Commission and shown in Milan, revealed blue light’s dangerousness: its wave length, indeed, falls within the visible range, but near UV (400-500mm). In this case, the damage is not direct: the eye is very rich in oxygen and all the parts that make it up are sensitive to oxydative stress and, if hit by light, produce several free radicals that, over the years, cause a progressive damage. To protect one’s eyes from ultraviolet rays and blue light since childhood is pivotal. Unfortunately, still today many parents underestimate the problem and buy low-quality products. Instead, the purchase of a good product is the starting point of a correct prevention in general, both for children and for adults. The optician will be glad to help anyone, irrespective of age, to find the most suitable frame.

Found in B2eyesmagazine, May 2008