| Go To Media Archive |
|---|
DECEMBER 2004 |
Media Release Embargo 14 December 2004 Don’t fry your eyes this summer: Eye experts are warning Australians to protect their eyes from damaging ultra violet radiation this summer. Research shows that Australians who spend even moderate time in the summer sun without appropriate eye protection are twice as likely to develop dangerous vision complications later in life. The warning comes as alarming statistics reveal the total direct and indirect costs of UV exposure related diseases such as macular degeneration and cataracts, are as high as $2.25 billion – including the cost of loss of earnings, carers and vision aids. Optometrists Association Australia (OAA) President of Queensland Division, Mr Simon Hurwood, says these figures demonstrate the need for Australians to make protecting their eyes a priority this summer. “Awareness of the link between UV radiation and skin cancer is high, but many people are unaware of the actual damage UV radiation can cause to the eyes. “Simple preventative measures such as making sure you wear sunglasses that meet Australian standards and a broad-brimmed hat, go a long way to protecting against the development of UV related eye disease,” Mr Hurwood says. “While we urge everyone to protect their eyes, it is particularly crucial that children’s developing eyes are protected from an early age,” he said. Australian children are twice as likely to develop cataracts through exposure to the sun than children overseas, according to recent findings. “Our message is simple: Slip! Slop! Slap! and Slideon the sunnies,” said Mr Hurwood. Eye conditions associated with UV exposure include photokeratitis, sunburned eyes; pterygium, a fleshy growth on the eye; cataract; clouding of the lens and macular degeneration, loss of central vision. Cancer is also a possible effect of prolonged exposure to the sun. Former Australian cricketer and optometrist Geoff Lawson today officially launched the Optometrists Association Australia “Don’t fry your eyes this summer” campaign. Visit www.optometrists.asn.au for further information and to download the innovative virtual reality game that demonstrates the damage that can be done to your eyes when exposed to the sun. OPTOMETRISTS ASSOCIATION AUSTRALIA SUMMER EYECARE CHECKLIST Slip! Slop! Slap! and Slide! on sunglasses this summer Always make protecting your eyes a part of your summer routine.
All sunglasses on sale in Australia must meet this Australian standard AS1067 which specifies how much UV radiation the sunglasses must block.
Choose sunglasses that are impact and scratch resistant. Sunglasses with polycarbonate lenses and are lightweight are most suitable for children. -ends- For further information or to schedule an interview please call: Robert Hilkes, OAA on 03 9663 6833 or 0413 338 144 Note: Geoff Lawson and Simon Hurwood are available for interview. Archives of Opthalmology, 2004; 122: 750-757. |