Protect children’s eyes from damaging UV rays expert calls

The South West has had some incredibly weather this July and though parents have probably been donning their sunglasses, it may not be a consideration extended to children.

In the summer months, the heat increases as does the number of hours of daily sunshine. This causes a greater exposure to harmful UV rays.

According to findings by Specsavers, 95 per cent of people think the harmful UV rays and children’s skin is the most important thing to be aware of.

But only 7 per cent knew about the harmful effects UV rays have on eyes.

Specsavers clinical expert, Dr Nigel Best says that too much exposure to harmful UV rays during childhood can increase the risk of developing sight related conditions in later life.

He said: “The natural lens inside a child’s eye is clearer than an adult’s and allows more UV radiation to pass through to the retina. This is because as we age the lens of our eye naturally yellows, reducing the amount of UV radiation that can pass through. This, coupled with the fact that children generally have larger pupils than adults, means that children’s eyes are exposed to far more UV damage.”