Clinically tested Baby Banz offer full UV Protection for 0 to 3 year olds. Baby Banz have a trendy wrap-around design with adjustable neoprene band. Unlike tradition sunglasses Baby Banz are comfortable so they stay put
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Should children wear sunglasses?
Children are particularly at risk from UV radiation because they spend so much of their time outdoors and are not aware of the danger it poses. It is up to parents to protect their children's eyes by ensuring they wear a hat and a good Quality pair of sunglasses.
Be careful when choosing sunglasses for children. Sometimes what appears to be sunglasses will be 'toy' models which provide no protection at all. Always check the sunglasses comply with the Australian Standard.
Sunglasses are no longer a fashion fad. They are essential in
preventing eye damage caused by the suns ultra violet radiation. While
most of us are aware of sunburn, that leads to skin cancer, medical evidence
shows that our eyes also can suffer from 'sunburn which can lead to cataracts -
a leading cause of blindness.
Children and young adults are especially at risk and parents should make sure
their children wear sunglasses - particularly when levels of UV radiation are
high, such as on the beach, in water and in snow, where there is additional
danger due to reflection.
What is UV radiation?
UV radiation is a component of solar energy, as is visible light and infra
red radiation (heat). Other sources of UV radiation include welding arcs,
high intensity mercury vapour lights and even tanning lamps.
UV radiation consists of three main types: UVA, UVB which causes sunburn and
is largely responsible for causing skin cancer. Most solar UV radiation
striking the Earth is absorbed by the ozone layer but it has been calculated
that a one per cent decrease in the amount of atmospheric ozone will increase UVB
levels by about two per cent.
According to predictions of the Australia National Health and Medical
Research Council, more than 36,000 additional cases of eye problems a year will
occur as a result of ozone depletion. A one per cent rise in UV radiation
levels would increase the annual incidence of pterygia eye disease in Australia
by 26,000 cases.
Effects of UV radiation on the cornea
Most UV radiation striking the eye is absorbed by the cornea and high UV
levels such as those encountered in the snow or on the beach can cause it to
become inflamed.
The condition is extremely painful and causes the eye to be highly sensitive
to any light source. Although extremely uncomfortable, the condition
usually resolves itself in about 48 hours and it is advisable to have an eye
examination by an optometrist or ophthalmologist (eye surgeon) to ensure that no
other damage has occurred.
Effects of UV radiation on the conjunctiva.
Short term exposure to UV radiation can damage the conjunctiva, while
long-term exposure can cause it to thicken, forming a fleshy growth known as a
pterygium. Progress of this condition is usually slow, growing until it
starts to cover part of the cornea when it can interfere with vision as well as
becoming unsightly.
The only treatment is surgical removal, which is a relatively minor
procedure. The eye should be examined by an expert in order to
differentiate between pterygia and other, more serious growths.
Effects of UV radiation on the lens
UV radiation, particularly the UVB type, has been shown to be associated with
the formation of cataracts. These are opacities which form in the lens of
the eye and interfere with vision, as though you were looking through a dirty
window.
In severe cases, cataracts can be removed surgically and the old, clouded
lens replaced by an artificial one. Cataracts have always been more common
among elderly people and were thought to be a natural result of ageing.
However, recent research suggests that while this may be partly true, they are
much more likely to be caused by prolonged exposure to UV radiation, which also
can damage the eye retina - the delicate nerve-rich lining of the eye used for
seeing. Most forms of retinal damage are irreversible.
How to avoid the effects of UV radiation
The simplest way of protecting your eyes from UV radiation is by limiting
your exposure to it.
The three best ways of doing this are
Avoid the sun - in summer, three quarters of outdoor UV exposure
occurs between 10am and 4 pm. Staying out of the sun between those times
will significantly reduce your UV exposure.
Wear a hat - A broad brimmed hat will not only protect your head from
sunburn, but will reduce the amount of UV radiation reaching your eyes by at
least half.
Wear sunglasses - A good pair of sunglasses will reduce the amount of
UV reaching your eyes and cut the amount of glare.
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