Most Americans At Risk of Eye Damage Due to Sun Exposure

More Americans are at risk of damaging their eyesight because of the harmful ultra-violet (UV) radiation penetrating their eyes.

According to a new nationwide report released by The Vision Council, one of three American adults do not wear sunglasses to protect their eyes. This is despite knowing the harmful effects of UV rays on the eyes.

Based on the survey of more than 10,000 adults, the organization found out that although most Americans are concerned about UV exposure, only 31% of them wear eye protection. Moreover, 34% of adults have already experienced symptoms of prolonged UV exposure, such as eye irritation, trouble seeing, and red or swollen eyes.

Moreover, when it comes to buying shades, more people are concerned with fit and affordability rather than its capacity to protect the eyes.

"UV radiation is no joke," the report said.

"Short-term UV exposure can leave eyes bloodshot, swollen or hyper-sensitive to light. But over a longer term, this exposure can accelerate serious eye health problems, including cataracts, macular degeneration, abnormal growths on the eye's surface, and cancers of the eye and surrounding skin," it added.

In a separate article, UPI explained that cataracts and macular degeneration are as worse as photokeratitis (eye sunburn), or growths on the eye, known as pterygium .

Damage in the eyes can start in as little as 15 minutes. Long-term UV damage is increasing through time and irreparable which is why it is important to protect your eyes as early as possible.

Below are other key findings from the survey:

Parents are more likely to wear shades always or often (56%) compared to their children (29%).
Many adults who rarely or never wear sunglasses (25%) report that they skip UV eye protection because they don't own prescription sunglasses (41%).
Millennials are least likely to protect their vision; 55% of people in their 20s never, rarely or only sometimes wear sunglasses.

"Consumers need to be aware of these issues, and the steps that they can take to prevent damage to the eyes throughout their lifetime," said Mike Daley, the CEO of The Vision Council in a press release.

Meanwhile, here are some things you can do to protect your eyes from the harmful rays.