(NC)-Sunglasses are widely considered a wardrobe essential along with shoes and handbags, but it’s easy to forget they also serve a more important purpose: to protect our eyes from the harmful rays of the sun.
“UV rays have a cumulative effect over time and can lead to serious eye diseases that don’t always have a cure. This is why the best line of defence is prevention through quality sunglasses that block out these rays,” says Dr. Keith Gordon, vice president of research and service quality at CNIB.
“UV rays can be present even on cloudy days or in the winter, so it’s important to wear sunglasses all year round.”
When it comes to choosing the right pair of shades, CNIB recommends looking for ones with at least 99 percent protection from both UVA and UVB rays.
“As Canadians start spending more time outdoors in the spring and summer, sun protection for the eyes should be a top priority right next to sunscreen and a hat,” says Dr. Gordon.
Children in particular need protection as their eye tissues are more susceptible to sun damage and they tend to be outdoors more often.
