ALEXANDRIA—More than 55 percent of adults in the United States lose or break their sunglasses every year, according to a report by The Vision Council. For those individuals and the 27 percent of Americans who do not wear sunglasses at all, exposure to ultraviolet radiation could end up costing a lot more than a new pair of shades.

UV radiation remains a threat to eye health, yet few understand the risk and consequences of cumulative UV exposure. In fact, 20 percent of adults do not feel their eyes are at risk for sun exposure, and 11 percent do not believe unprotected exposure to UV rays causes health problems.

"A substantial proportion of people still do not understand that UV exposure is harmful to the eyes as well as the skin," said ophthalmologist Dr. Paul Michelson, chairman of the Better Vision Institute, the medical advisory arm to The Vision Council.

UV rays can penetrate the internal structures of the eye, causing serious temporary and permanent vision disorders.

Short-term damage can range from bloodshot or sensitive eyes to painful conditions like photokeratitis or sunburn of the eye. High doses of UV radiation can lead to long-term health issues like cataracts, abnormal eye growths, cancer of the eye and surrounding skin, and macular degeneration.

Sunglasses and other UV-protective prescription eyewear remain the best defense against UV damage to vision.

“It's not necessary to buy expensive sunglasses,” Michelson said. “It is more important to choose a pair that offers protection from both UVA and UVB rays, because both types can damage vision.”

Look for a label that also says the sunglasses meet American National Standards Institute, or ANSI, standards. Purchase comfortable sunglasses, because they won’t get worn if they aren’t comfortable.

Purchase sunglasses from a reputable retailer, and discuss the best lens and frame options for your face shape, activities and lifestyle. Wraparound styles of frames with larger temples will help block the sun from side angles. Select a lens color that improves clarity and reduces glare.

Also, make sure your children get in the habit of wearing sunglasses. Children receive three times the annual sun exposure adults do, and their still-developing eyes are at greater risk.

Contact Sara Owens, VFBF communications, at 804-290-1133.