2007, Issues 3

Educating, Connecting and Supporting families in Monash

Eye Care for Young Children

Rhonda Kirkham

Don't Forget the Sunnies—For the kids that is!!!

Leading optometrists, along with the Anticancer Council, are advising sunglasses for children.

UV radiation cannot only harm skin but also eyes. Research has shown that long term exposure to UV radiation to the eyes is a contributor of cataracts later in life, along with some forms of eye cancers.

Children, especially toddlers, are more at risk of damage as their exposure to UV radiation is greater. Out door play is a highlight of the day. With a walk, children are often in pushers, receiving the sun in their face along with the reflective light from the concrete path-this can cause problems too. It is not uncommon to see the child’s carer with hat and sun- glasses on but the child left fully exposed to the UV rays. UV radiation is the strongest between 10 am and 4pm (extend the time for daylight saving).

Safety lenses may be a consideration - to prevent eye damage in case of the child falling, etc. with glasses on. The Anticancer Council of Victoria list the following when purchasing sunglasses for young children.

1. Close fitting
2. Wrap around and cover as much of the eye area as possible
3. Meet Australian Standard 1067:2003 (sunglasses: Category 2, 3, or 4)
4. Are marked EPF (eye protection factor) 10
5. Always use sunglasses in combination with other sun protection measures; shade, clothing, hats and sunscreen.

If sunglasses cannot be worn, wear a wide brim hat and stay in the shade to give eyes maximum protection.

For further information the following web sites can be of use:

www.sunsmart.com.au - resources information on sunscreen

www.optometrists.asn.au

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Updated: 14 December 2007

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