During the summer months when the days are longer and the sun is stronger, the American Academy of Ophthalmology (link to www.aao.org) reminds us of the importance of protecting our eyes. Studies have shown that exposure to bright sunlight may increase the risk of developing cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, and growths on the eye – including cancer.

The longer your eyes are exposed to bright light, the greater the risk is. The sun’s ultraviolet or UV light can also be reflected off sand, water, and pavement, which can damage your eyes’ front surface. Just like your skin, your eyes can never recover from UV exposure.

There are three types of UV rays: UV-A, UV-B, and UV-C rays. UV-C rays are of little concern because they are absorbed by the upper atmosphere and do not reach the earth’s surface. The UV-A and UV-B rays are the ones that cause concern.

UV-A rays can hurt your central vision, and can damage the part of the retina at the back of your eye called the macula. The front part of your eye, the cornea and lens, absorbs the most UV-B rays. These rays may cause even more damage to your eyes than UV-A rays.

1. Spend long hours in the sun
2. Have had cataract surgery or have retina disorders
3. Are on certain medicines, such as tetracycline, sulfa drugs, diuretics, and tranquilizers that increase the eye’s sensitivity to light.

A good way to help protect your eyes from the damaging effect of the sun’s harmful rays is to wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. The American Academy of Ophthalmology suggests these tips when choosing sunglasses:

• Don’t focus on the color or darkness of sunglass lenses: Select sunglasses that block UV rays. Don’t be deceived by color or cost. The ability to block UV light is not dependent on the price tag.
  
• Check for 100 percent UV protection: Make sure your sunglasses block 100 percent of UV rays and UV-B rays.
  
• Choose wrap-around styles: Ideally, your sunglasses should wrap all the way around to your temples, so the sun’s rays can’t enter from the side.
  
• Don’t rely on contact lenses: Even if you wear contact lenses with UV protection, remember your sunglasses.
  
• Protect your eyes during peak sun times: Sunglasses should be worn whenever outside. It’s especially important to wear sunglasses in the early afternoon and at higher altitudes, where UV light is more intense.
  

• Don’t forget the kids: Everyone is at risk, including children. Make sure their sunglasses fit well and are not damaged. Sunglass lenses should be impact resistant and not pop out of the frame. Also, choose a lens that is large enough to shield their eyes from most angles. Finally, try to keep children out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when the sun’s UV rays are the strongest.

It’s not only sunny days you have to be concerned about – do not to be fooled by cloudy days. The sun’s rays can still pass through the haze and thin clouds. Additionally, be sure to receive routine comprehensive eye exams. It’s a good way to monitor eye health, maintain good vision, and keep up to date on the latest in UV radiation protection.

To keep your eyes as healthy as possible, remember The Christian Brothers Employee Benefit Trust has joined with the Vision Service Plan, better known as VSP, to bring you a discount eyecare program. VSP is a popular national vision provider that allows eligible members to receive discounts when visiting a VSP network doctor. VSP will be provided for all Trust participants who are enrolled for medical coverage.*

VSP network doctors are easily accessible and are conveniently located near your home, work, and shopping centers. At every VSP network location, you will receive exceptional care as well as a wide selection of frames and contacts to choose.

Routine eye exams can help you see better, as well as detect a number of serious health conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, diabetes, cancer, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. For kids, routine eye exams can detect problems that can impact learning and development.

Whether you need to schedule evening appointments, need doctors who focus on sports eyewear, or someone you can trust who is familiar with working with children, VSP network doctors know what is important to you and your family.

With VSP, there are no ID cards, no claim forms, and you can get your eye exam, glasses and contacts all at one convenient location. Visit the VSP Web site at www.vsp.com (link to www.vsp.com), or call 1-800-877-7195 to find a VSP network provider’s office near you.

*If your organization already contracts with VSP, the terms of that contract will prevail.