Toowoomba optometrist warns residents to be sun safe or risk permanent eye damage

New research has found 59% of Queenslanders aren’t aware that the sun can cause permanent damage to eyes, and a Toowoomba optometrist is concerned residents risk permanent damage if they aren’t careful.

Kieran Davey gets his eyes checked by Specsavers Clifford Gardens optometrist Steve Turley.

A TOOWOOMBA optometrist is warning residents to be vigilant when it comes to sun safety and the protection of their eyes.

New research commissioned by Specsavers has found that six out of 10 Queenslanders aren’t aware that the sun can permanently damage eyes by causing things like cataracts, cancer or macular degeneration.

While 93% of people are concerned about long-term damage to their body, the eyes tend to be forgotten about, with just 34% of Queenslanders concerned about the long-term damage to their eyes from the effects of the sun.

With Australia having one of the highest levels of UV in the world and one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, optometrists around the country are calling for Aussies to be more sun smart and wear sun protection this summer, and have their eyes checked if they think they might have a problem.

Specsavers Toowoomba Clifford Gardens optometrist Steve Turley said it was important residents were educated on both the potential long-term damage and what they could do to prevent it.

Specsavers Clifford Gardens optometrist Steve Turley.

“The reality is that living in Australia means that we can be exposed to dangerous levels of UV radiation when we’re outside, even when it’s not bright and sunny,” he said.

“While our eyelids are designed to protect our eyes, the skin around our eyes is very thin and contains fragile tissues that can easily be damaged by UV light.

“UV damage to the eye and eyelid increases risk of serious conditions such as eyelid skin cancers, intraocular melanoma, conjunctival cancers, cataracts, macular degeneration and more.

“Unlike skin, where sun damage may be more visibly obvious, it’s not necessarily the case when it comes to the eyes as you may not notice symptoms until well after the damage is done.

“People may not realise that symptoms such as redness, blurry vision, swelling, light sensitivity, seeing halos and experiencing watery eyes can all be possible symptoms of sun damage to the eyes.”

The research found that not only is there a lack of awareness of the sun exposure implications on eyes, but that two in five Queenslanders admit that they don’t wear sunglasses most of the time when they’re outside.

Heading into warm weather, Specsavers Toowoomba Clifford Gardens is encouraging residents to book a routine eye test and look after their eyes and vision.

Head to www.specsavers.com.au/stores to book your appointment or for more information.

Tips for preventing eye sun damage from Steve Turley

1. Apply sunscreen on your eyelids and around your eyes

3. Wear broadbrimmed hat

4. Be mindful of the amount of time you spend in the sun

5. Know family history

6. Get eyes tested regularly