Professional association Optometry Australia is warning our eyes, like our skin, can get sunburnt – and children are most at risk because their lenses are clearer, allowing more ultraviolet rays deep into their eyes.

A survey by The Courier the past two days revealed few children wore sunglasses at popular summer playspaces, including water parks.

OA’s resident optometrist Luke Arundel said sliding on a pair of sunglasses should be right up there with remembering to slip, slop and slap this summer. Mr Arundel also said setting good eye care habits early could help stamp out cumulative problems caused by sun exposure later in life.

“We believe that while many parents and schools will not let children go outside without sunscreen or protective sun clothing, they are not putting enough emphasis on sun damage to children’s eyes,” Mr Arundel said. 

“Wearing a hat simply doesn’t offer enough protection. The simple solution is to always encourage children to wear sunglasses when outdoors. Adults can also become a role model in cutting down sun-related eye conditions by always wearing sunglasses outdoors.”

READ MORE

UV rays can inflict photokeratitis, which like sunburn is usually felt after damage was done. Symptoms include pain, redness, blurriness, tearing, swelling and sensitivity to light.

Prolonged UV exposure is also linked to conditions like cataract, macular degeneration, pterygium (a fleshy growth over the front of the eye) and even eye cancers.

OPSM Central Square store manager Mark Newitt said optometrists could assess eye health and it was important for children to get their eyes checked before starting school to ensure they did not start behind the class. A visit could also teach children how to look after their eyes.

OPSM advises to choose sunglasses marked category 4 or 5 (sunglasses sold in Australia must state this level) because Australian Sunglasses Standards state they absorb almost all UV radiation.

Wearing a broad-brimmed hat and good sunglasses can reduce UV radiation exposure to the eyes by up to 98 per cent, according to Australian Sunglasses Standards.