The right sunglasses help summer drivers stay safe

THE UK’s roadster and coupe cabriolet drivers are being given some timely advice about looking cool behind the wheel this summer – without compromising their safety.

The trick is to avoid making a spectacle of yourself by wearing naff shades while at the same time protecting your eyes from excessive glare.

The Eyecare Trust says that sunglasses are not merely a fashion statement, even though designer models can cost hundreds.

The Trust advises drivers to choose glasses bearing the CE or BS EN 1836:2005 marks for a safe level of protection.

Don’t choose really dark glasses which could impair vision when driving. But do choose lenses with anti-reflective coatings to reduce glare.

Sunglasses with slim arms provide the greatest all-round vision, bearing in mind drivers to see at least 120 degrees.

Beware of pink or blue tinted lenses which can distort colours, such as traffic lights.

Sunglasses with graduated-tint lenses are best for drivers. They give protection from bright overhead light and leave a lighter area that is best for reading maps or dashboard instruments.

Dame Mary Perkins, founder of the Specsavers chain, says: "Sunglasses make driving in bright light easier by reducing glare from the road, especially for drivers of open-top cars.

"They also enhance contrast, provide protection from the sun and significantly reduce eye fatigue.”

Luxottica confirms 2008 guidance

Italian eyewear group Luxottica (LUX.MI: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz) confirmed its 2008 guidance on Thursday, as expected, and said it saw mid-single digit growth in second quarter sales at current exchange rates, despite tough market conditions.

The world's biggest eyewear group, which saw net profit fall 19 percent in the first quarter -- partly hit by a weak U.S. dollar and the U.S. consumer slowdown -- has forecast sales of 5.6 billion to 5.75 billion euros this year.

It expects earnings per share of 1.11 to 1.14 euros.

"I am more comfortable today than 4 months ago, dealing with these tough times, cost base and efficency," Luxottica Chief Executive Andrea Guerra told analysts on a conference call, which had been announced earlier this week to confirm guidance.

In a slide presentation, it said it saw second-quarter EBITDA margin growth in line with the first quarter. This excludes a non-recurring gain of about 20 million euros related to the sale of a property in the second quarter of last year.

Luxottica, which bought U.S. sports brand Oakley last year, said market conditions remained "tough" with a significantly delayed start of the sunny season in certain Mediterranean countries and U.S. dollar weakness.

Luxottica said it expected a more "normalised" business for the second half of the year. It should meet its full year guidance with "very clear plans" to compensate for a slowdown in certain countries for the wholesale division and said that there would be less of an impact from Oakley-related one-time charges.

It said it expects "good results" from manufacturing, sourcing and supply chains and potentially an improvement in the U.S. dollar and euro exchange rate. Continued...

Investors are looking at luxury goods makers for signs of cooling demand amid a global economic downturn. Some luxury goods groups have felt the impact of weaker sales but have said they expect results to hold up as long as the economic climate does not worsen.

Luxottica shares closed down 5.68 percent at 15.40 euros before the conference call.

5 things you didn't know about … protecting your eyes

1. More than fashion: Sunglasses and a hat can protect your eyes from UV rays and reduce the risk of cataracts and retinal damage. They also protect the sensitive skin around your eyes, which, if overexposed to the sun, can result in eyelid cancers and wrinkling.

2. Eye burn: Artificial sources of UVB rays - tanning beds, halogen desk lamps - can cause snowblindness, the burning of the cornea. The condition also occurs at high altitudes on highly reflective snow fields. Symptoms include tearing, pain, redness and temporary loss of vision. Treatment consists of eye patches and an antibiotic solution.

3. Watch out: Pterygium, a noncancerous growth over the white part of the eye, has been diagnosed more frequently in people who spend a lot of time in the sun and wind, i.e, fishermen, surfers. No treatment is required, unless it blocks your vision. Then, it can be removed surgically.

4. Read the label: Don't be fooled into thinking that pricey sunglasses provide the best protection. The label is more important than the price tag. Make sure it says 99 percent to 100 percent UV protection, and make sure the label on your children's sunglasses says the same.

5. Partly cloudy: Keep wearing your sunglasses, even on a cloudy day. Clouds do not wipe out UV rays.

D&g Men Eyewear Collection Fall/Winter 0809

D&G: a brand that is universally recognised as young, innovative, unconventional and continuously evolving in its search for style and quality.

This season, the D&G man’s eyewear collection adds four new models, for sun and optical, distinct in their soft, oversized shapes and elegant details.

The collection is made predominantly of plastic frames in different shapes. Sun Collection: men’s acetate frame, inspired by the 1960s. The rectangular, even front is combined with highmounted, robust arms and slightly wrap-around lenses.

The D&G logo is placed on the arms with three decorative metal accents. This model is made of natural plastic and is paired with lenses that match the frame, offered in shiny black and in light and dark tobacco brown.

Class drop-shape metal model updated with design details. This model is inspired by the timeless aviator glasses. Its uniqueness is created by the use of a thin metal plate on which the rimless lenses are attached, held by four little hooks. The metal frame is particularly shiny and is available in black, silver, brown and gunmetal.

Optical collection: large glasses with a strong visual impact from the striking thickness of the plastic. The rectangularfront recalls the shapes of the 1950s, but the flowing lines give this model a modern, sporty look. Available in shiny black, red on a black base, red and dark tobacco.Plastic model with a rectangular, very even shape; its size and proportions give it an especially gutsy look.

The logo is engraved on a small metal plaque placed on both arms. The frame is available in black or in unusual colour combinations, such as red on a burgundy base mixed with black or tobacco paired with blue, or black with tobacco.

D&G women eyewear collection Fall/Winter 0809

D&G: a brand that is universally recognised as young, innovative, unconventional and continuously evolving in its search for style and quality. This season, the D&G women’s eyewear collection adds four new models, for sun and optical, distinct in their soft, oversized shapes and elegant details. The collection is made predominantly of plastic frames in different shapes.

For The women’ sun collection there are two new shapes: wide, wrap-around frame that recalls the style and taste of the 1970s, in classic black in shiny plastic as well as in burgundy and bottle green with a unique marbled effect. Or wide, rounded plastic glasses with an unmistakable glamour inspired by the stars of Hollywood, the main feature of this model is its rounded shape that gives it a harmonious, flowing quality and the colour palette includes black, tobacco, beige and purple.

Also for the optical the new shapes are two, the first has a plastic oval frame, halfway between the classic rectangle and the 1980s-inspired pilot shape.
The frames are thin around the lenses and this continues along the arms in a linear fashion. This model is available in black, white, red, iridescent tobacco and blond. The second is an oval model clearly inspired by the 1950s.

Featuring a simple line and limited size, this model stands out for its colour play created by pairing different coloured plastics, such as black with streaked ice, brown with horn and transparent crystal with streaked yellow, red and purple.

Wear your shades to protect your eyes

CIVIC leader Colin Burgess and his family are promoting eye health this summer by looking cool.

The Congleton Borough Mayor and his five grandchildren are donning their sunglasses as part of Shades Day.

The event is organised by the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association, and Cllr Burgess, from Alsager, is encouraging people to take part.

Research has shown spending five or more hours outside every day in the summer in your teens and early adult years increases risk of long-term eye damage.

Children and adults are urged to put on sunglasses, a sun visor or hat to protect them from harmful UV sunlight.

This will help reduce your risk from such eye conditions as Age-related Macular Degeneration and cataracts.

“I value the health of my grandchildren, and it is extremely important to wear sunglasses,” said Cllr Burgess.

“Shades Day is a fantastic way to raise money for Guide Dogs and to highlight the importance of wearing sunglasses.”

Tom Pey from Guide Dogs said educating people in how to protect their sight was important.

“One simple way to keep eyes healthy is to wear your sunglasses,” he said.

“If you are outside and the light is so bright you have to squint or turn your head away you know you have to put on your shades.

“Experts recommend wraparound-style sunglasses marked with Type 2 or 3 and with a CE symbol.

“To cut out the most damaging blue light it’s best to choose shades with yellowish or amber lenses.”

Safilo, Luxottica's Italian plants cut production, jobs - unions

The Italian eyewear companies Safilo Group SpA and Luxottica Group SpA have reduced production and/or cut jobs at some of their Italian plants, due to a slowdown in demand and seasonal factors, a union representative told Thomson Financial News.

Giuseppe Colferai, provincial secretary of the FILTEA-CGIL union at Belluno, an industrial zone specialised in the manufacturing of eyewear, said that Safilo started this week temporarily layoffs at its Longarone plant that focuses on metal components.

He noted that metal is currently less sought after in the production of eyewear than plastic because of a fashion trend. But, the plant's production is also being hit by the economic slowdown in the United States and poor weather conditions, which affects the sale of sunglasses.

Safilo is the world's second largest eyewear group. The U.S. market is estimated to represent more than 30 percent of the company's revenues.

Colferai added that production at all of Safilo's Italian plants will dramatically decline at the end of June, with plants working at reduced capacity

due to a shift to the autumn/winter collections as well as initial work on next year's spring/summer collection.

This will led to temporarily layoffs at all sites, he said.

In Italy, manufacturers can use the so-called 'cassa integrazione' that enables them to temporarily lay off workers, who are then paid by a special fund.

Colferai indicated that workers will receive 80 percent of their wages while in 'cassa integrazione'.

Temporary layoffs are common in June because of the collection shift, he said.

However in July, the Longarone site will continue using the 'cassa integrazione' fund and reduce production on Fridays because of the special situation regarding metal components, he added.

Turning to Luxottica, the world's leading eyewear group, Colferai said that the group is not renewing 40 temporary jobs at its plant at Rovereto, Italy.

The union expects the group will cut another 200 jobs at its plants at Pederobba and Agordo.

Colferai added that in recent months the group has already cut about 100 jobs at its Pederobba plant, which produces sports eyewear, and a similar number at its main Italian plant of Agordo.

Like Safilo, Luxottica is suffering from the drop in global consumption, but overall the 'situation still remains calm,' he said.

He described Luxottica as a 'war machine' that can rely on its large retail network to sell its production.

Luxottica has a global network of more than 6,200 stores.

Safilo has also launched plans to boost its retail business to at least 20 percent of total sales in 2012 from 6 percent in 2007 by increasing the store network to between 700 and 800 from about 270 currently.

In a study released on June 10, the Italian fashion association Altagamma said that the global performance of the luxury goods sector indicates a weaker outlook this year for the industry compared with 2007.

It also indicated that the most successful companies are those that have developed a retail business, as well as boosting efficiency thanks to the management of working capital and store inventories.

Picking The Wrong Pair Of Sunglasses Can Do More Harm Than Good

The summer sun can make for a lot of fun, but meteorologists and eye doctors agree - choosing the wrong pair of sunglasses can be hazardous to your health.

The sun can represent warmth, light and a chance for a tan, but it's no secret the bright star also poses potential dangers.

"Ultra-violet rays, people usually associate with getting a sunburn and skin cancer, but they can also damage your eyes, damage your cornea so that's the primary threat,"

That's where sunglasses come in. But if you pick the wrong pair, they can do more harm than good.


"Your pupils dilate to let in more light, and it's the same thing when you wear sunglasses. Your pupils dilate, they get bigger to let in more light, and if you don't have UV protection, ultra-violet protection on your sunglasses, you'll actually let more dangerous light into your eyes," Hall said.

Optometrists say smaller-sized sunglasses are not as protective against the sun’s rays because beams can still leak in through the top and bottom.

David Huntzberry, the owner and an optician at Longmeadow Eyecare said, "It can be uncomfortable as well as a little bit dangerous because you are allowing light in from the sides. It's not so much direct light but indirect light."

Huntzberry says polarized sunglasses are also easier on the eyes.

He added, "Glare being bright, unwanted, harsh, brilliant, reflective light. With that filter in the lens, it filters out reflective light and just allows more direct light in."

Meteorologist Ian Hall says UVA rays are commonly associated with wrinkles and aging, while UVB rays are known to cause sunburn and skin cancer.

Sunglasses warning from opticians

Opticians have warned that some fashion sunglasses provide no protection against the harmful effects of the sunlight.

The number of people suffering from sun-related damage to their eyes is increasing, according to the Association of Optometrists (AOI).

The AOI has stressed that the sun can cause irreversible, long-term damage to the eye and the highest risk groups, children and the elderly, wear little or no protective eyewear in the sun.

It also says many fashion sunglasses with fashion tints offer no protection against sunlight, and proper sunglasses delay ageing of the eyes by 20% and decrease the risk of getting cataracts by 40%.

The AOI is warning people about the importance of protecting their eyes in the sun.

"Following evidence of increasing numbers of people presenting with sun-related damage to their eyes, the AOI advises that wearing proper sunglasses helps to prevent such damage and to protect the eyes."

Optometrist Lynda McGivney Nolan said the human eye is as sensitive to the sun as skin is, yet, when Irish people are out in the sun, many neglect to pay attention to the quality of sunglasses they are wearing.

"Just as the sun causes serious damage to the skin, so can the harmful rays from sunlight cause irreversible, long-term damage to the eye, including skin cancer on the lids, corneal burns, damage to the eye tissue, cataracts and macular degeneration."

The AOI recommends that good sunglasses offering the maximum protection should:

*Eliminate UV, A,B and C radiation, and all radiation up to 400nm.

*Protect the eye from blue light which does the most damage to the back of the eye.

*Allow normal colour perception and optimise clarity of vision.

*Have wide-sided or wraparound styling to protect the eye from sunlight from the side.

*Use the correct degree of protection appropriate to the light conditions and the activity being performed.

The AOI says many fashion sunglasses with fashion tints such as blue or pink offer poor vision quality and no protection against sunlight.

Ms McGivney Nolan said your local optometrist (optician) is best placed to advise you on the best type of protective sunglasses for your needs.

Experts: Sunglasses more than fashion statement

The sun is getting brighter, the days are getting warmer and people are coming out of their houses.

This time of year means Little League, yard work and home improvements that have been put on hold by winter.

Dr. Terry Voirin, general ophthalmologist at Wheaton Eye Clinic in Plainfield, warns people that all these activities can damage eyes if protective measures are not taken.

To stress his point, he tells the story of a man who was cutting his grass on a riding lawn mower. While he was wearing sunglasses, the outside corner of his eyes were exposed.

A rock shot out from under the mower, struck the garage and ricochetted, hitting his eye on the unprotected side. It took two to three weeks for him to get his vision back.

"He was lucky because he gained his vision back," Voirin said. Most of the time, Voirin said, people just neglect eye protection.

"I think they just don't think anything is going to happen to them," he said.

But, it does.

When Voirin worked at a level one trauma center in Peoria, he said he saw numerous eye injuries caused by home improvements or outdoor sports that could have been prevented with proper eye protection.

"When I think cutting or hammering with nails, I think the goggles, wrap-around glasses are the best bet," he said.

People sometimes mistakenly think if they wear prescription eyeglasses that is enough protection for the eye. But, there is so much space that is not protected by regular glasses.

For children playing summer sports, protective eyewear is a must. If parents are concerned whether eyewear fits correctly or is the right choice, they should consult an eye doctor.

Adult recreational athletes also are in danger of eye injuries.

"I get a lot of guys that come in here and they are playing pick-up basketball and they got poked in the eye," Voirin said.

He said he also sees a lot of eye injuries in competitive badminton.

The most dangerous sport for the eyes, from Voirin's perspective, is paintball, especially because of the popular new plastic BBs.

"I have seen some horrific injuries from those," he said.

Proper protection can be an eye-saver. When it comes to paintball, sunglasses and regular goggles are not enough.

Instead, Voirin suggests participants use special paintball goggles.

It's not just those working around the house or playing sports who are in danger of damaging their eyes. Everyone must protect their eyes from the sun.

"The sun has been shown to increase the risk for macular degeneration and cataracts," Voirin said.

When shopping for sunglasses, people do not have to spend a lot of money. "As long as the little tag says UV protection, that's all you need," he said.

Sunglasses should be worn until the sun no longer is so bright that it causes a person to squint, he said.

Car windshields have some protection, but not enough.

For people who wear prescription glasses and like the convenience of lenses that darken in the sun, Voirin said improvements are on the way that will allow the lenses to darken in the car, despite the protection of the windshield.

Oakley's Enduring - Sunglasses designed by women for women

Sunglasses to me are what Manolo's are like to Carrie (Sarah Jessica Parker, in case you've been living under a rock.) I have the beach "cheapies" (10 bucks) and my stylish Kate Spades (let's just say over a hundred dollars), but for real performance I always carry my Oakley's. Simply put, they make the best polarized lenses - no distortion, real colors, and because of the "water sheer" factor, you can even wear them in the pool. (Oakley calls it, amusingly, the Hydrophobic feature, but basically it's a permanent lens coating that prevents water from leaving streaks and sheens, which can compromise vision. It also works against sweat, skin oils, fingerprints and suntan lotions.)

Now they've taken them one step further and improved the fit by enlisting female athletes in the design process. The result? Two sizes of interchangeable nose pieces which come with every frame, adapting for the perfect fit, and a frame made of something called "Unobtanium," which makes them light. Also, the supple synthetic increases grip with perspiration.

For unbeatable clarity at all angles of vision - even at the sides - the lens contours provide peripheral view and optimize protection against sun and wind, and - god forbid - side impact.

Two different lens shapes let you choose the amount of lens coverage; I prefer the Pace style but the Edge is very sporty, and I like them for biking. There's tons of frames and lenses to chose from. Whatever your choice, the semi-rimless design ensures that there's no frame rim to block downward view.

Wearing glasses has never been more stylish

Occasionally customers return glasses because their husbands or wives hate them, said Meltzer, owner of Spectacles in Great Neck, N.J. He’ll usually take them back, suggesting the client return with spouse in tow. If they get the choice down to two, Meltzer advises they go with the spouse’s pick — since that’s who has to look at them the most.

Buying glasses can be prickly business for the nearly 171 million American adults who, according to the Vision Council of America, wear some form of corrective lenses — eyeglasses, contacts or reading glasses. The good news: There are more choices than ever before. Eyewear, in fact, has become the hot, new accessory.

We’re in something of an ophthalmological moment, with more and more brands launching eyewear lines (including Cole-Haan, Carmen Marc Valvo, Jimmy Choo, Tiffany and Pucci), and designers (like Valvo and Michael Kors) dressing models in frames in recent runway shows.

Stars, too — Chloe Sevigny, Jennifer Garner, Johnny Depp, even “Speed Racer’s” Emile Hirsch — are popping up bespectacled in the pages of magazines and gossip columns. “Saturday Night Live” alum Tina Fey became a smart-girl sex symbol with her specs. And “American Idol” judge Randy Jackson is so identified with his angular frames he launched his own line this spring.

“My eyewear is a part of my look and personality,” said Jackson. “Eyeglasses aren’t only for seeing, but for looking good. The days of being called ‘four eyes’ are out.”

“I attribute it to the political atmosphere today,” said Robert Marc, a designer of sleek, upscale frames. “With the upcoming elections and debates about the economy, the environment and the war, everyone wants to look cerebral and `in the know.’’”

Glasses can also express one’s style and creativity. “Eyewear is the new scarf, the new tie,” notes trend consultant Tom Julian, of the Tom Julian Group in Manhattan. “Think left brain/right brain — if a purse or watch used to do a power thing, glasses do the creative thing.”

Technology, too, he adds, “has helped spur interest in frames.” Advances in laminates allow for saturated, bold colors; lasers cut out or etch intricate designs on temples; and jewels and crystals offer bling.

Shades of summer

From goggles to rimless study glasses, designer boutiques are spilling with eyewear options this summer. It’s time to say ‘Eye do’ to sunglasses

Jimmy Choo
If exclusivity is anything to go by, eyewear from Jimmy Choo has made a smashing debut this year. With Choo, sunglasses only get bigger. Their Boo and Kat styles are perfect for those who love to remain incognito—even Jennifer Lopez is hiding her tired eyes behind them. Mostly oversized frames in red, topaz and pink, they even come with Swarovski detailing to add some glitter. Sex up your eyes with knotted snake effect of their JJ sunglasses (This style appears in their sandals too). A one-time splurge is guaranteed to get the twinkle back in many an eye.

Bottega Veneta
Through Bottega Veneta sunglasses, the world is definitely rosy. Aviator shades command as much attention as the bags at the Italian design brand this season. They command a stiff price too — walk into a store only if Rs 55,000 is not too much to spare. With their signature weave design; these handcrafted aviators come in earthy frames of old bronze and copper. Also, you can brighten up your days with their Gray Gradient sunglasses that are a winner. All their pairs come in a lovely case with the 'intrecciato' woven leather, so it's like buying two beautiful things for the price of one. And yes, each pair of sunglasses comes with a detachable leather cord so that you can comfortably wear them around your neck as well.

Gucci
Stabbing would be fashionable if women needed a prescription to wear Gucci eyewear. Retro looks with Lolita-heart glasses and tortoiseshell borders have made a serious comeback. Frames of Gucci's Spring Summer 2008 collection are a cure for sore eyes. The Black Horse Pit and the buckle frames are ones to watch out for. Mauves, reds, purples and yellows sit pretty on shelves and prettier on noses. No wonder our fashionistas have already created a demand-supply deficit as far as the sole Swarovski-studded pair in the collection goes.

Roberto Cavalli
Some summers are hot enough for a chic European look that demands a fabulous pair of Roberto Cavalli sunglasses. Aviator style glasses rule here too. Unlike his fixation with Swarovski and encrusted diamantes last year, these aviators feature metal stud details on the arms and bridge. It's hard to miss the meticulous detail in the laser inscribed logo on the side. Like every year, Cavalli's premiere couture line is sure to make heads turns.

Rating: Very good

At Shoppers Stop and leading optical boutiques

Moschino
Moschino's latest line leaves one spoilt for choice. It has 24 ophthalmic frames and 24 sunglasses in plastic and metal. One can tell Moschino by graphic icons like the heart, which appears predominantly throughout the collection, often embellished with Swarovski crystals. Other trademark motifs include peace symbols, question marks and studs. Colours range from bronze, gold, palladium, ruthenium, brown, black and ivory to Moschino favourite reds, blues and leopard prints.

Kavita Chougule
I have checked out the Jimmy Choo sunglasses online and found them great but right now, I am in love with my Tom Ford’s. They may be next, considering I buy myself a new pair every two-three months.

Mandira Bedi
I feel best behind very dark, huge sunglasses. Usually, it’s a pair of DKNY that I splurge on.

Maria Goretti
A classic pair of Gucci is a must-have. Although I have branded shades, I also have a stock of cheap but good sunglasses too. I have a tendency to lose them so they’re perfect.

The eyes have it!

Sunglasses are not for summers only anymore. Yet, it's mostly this season when brands launch their new collections and woo buyers. This summer promises to be no different — only the collections are bigger, better and costlier! Take a look at these latest lines available in the market which may just catch your eye, literally, this season!

Choosing Choo
There is a plethora of high-end brands to choose from. Apart from usual suspects like Fendi, Just Cavalli and Gucci this season, go look at Jimmy Choo as well. Well, Choo has launched its collection of sunglasses for the first time in the country. The shades are available in various shapes, sizes and colours though, of course, the most famous styles that you could opt for may be the oversized 1970s-80s look or Choo's "Rock" model that comes in a square frame, embellished with square Swarovski crystal studs. Price: Rs 18,500 onwards.

Burgundy is cool
Fendi, meanwhile, has brought its Selleria collection available in three colours —black, green and burgundy. The glasses are available in two shapes, small and oversized. The sunglasses come packaged in special Roman leather cases. Price: Rs 16,000 and above. Gucci's summer-spring collection is also available in the meanwhile and the range starts from Rs 15,000. Just Cavalli too has launched its Aviators for men, using tones like burgundy and brown and colder hues like blue. The rims of these glasses are in gold, bronze, black and silver. Price: Rs 8,000 onwards. If you like the retro look, Bvlgari has launched its 1960s collection and old favourite Ray Ban too has launched a limited edition collection of its famous Aviators range. Price: Rs 21,000 onwards.

The sun collection
Dolce&Gabbana's new collection is elegant, and the luxury element is understated with logos hidden inside the arms. On the other hand, there are sparkling decorations that heed to the design. Six unique models for men and women are available. Distributed by Luxottica, available at all leading optical outlets.

Summer sun can play havoc with your skin and eyes

Unprotected eyes and skin, the most sensitive body parts, are at the peril of damage as the amount of dangerous ultraviolet (UV) radiation increases in the summer sunlight.
The rays are harmful to human health, but considered the most damaging to unprotected eyes and skin, especially in the summer months when the UV radiation is at maximum levels in the UAE.

The UV radiation starts increasing in May and reaches its maximum level in July and August. It falls to minimum levels in December.
The high radiation time is noon. This seasonal UV increase is due to rays which filter through the protective ozone layer that absorbs much of this dangerous radiation. The UV rays are emitted by the Sun.
Most people, said experts, think UV rays are harmful only to their skin, but they are highly damaging to eyes.

Around 99 per cent of the radiation is absorbed by the anterior structures of the eye but some of it does reach the light-sensitive retina.
"Just like skin gets burnt by UV radiation, the eye can also suffer damage," said Dr Riaz Ahmad Minhas, a physician at the Emirates Clinic and Medical Centre in Al Ain. The effects of UV radiation are more insidious and detrimental to the eye than had been suspected previously, he noted.

Any factor that increases sunlight exposure to the eyes increases the risk of ocular damage from UV radiation. Individuals whose work or play ensures lengthy exposure to sunlight are at greatest risk, he said.

The latest research on animals and fish has shown premature ageing of the lens has long been associated with UV radiation.
"In the light of these findings, the experts suggest that medical practitioners should not hesitate to prescribe UV filters or appropriate sunglasses," said Dr Minhas.

He also suggests that UAE authorities should make it mandatory for companies to provide sunglasses for their field workers among other safety measures.
Dr Shabbir Saif Al Deen, an eye specialist at Al Musalla Medical Centre in Bur Dubai, said a wide-brimmed hat or cap will block roughly 50 per cent of UV radiation and reduce UV that may enter above or around the glasses.

"Ultraviolet absorbing eyewear provides the greatest measure of UV protection, particularly if it has a wraparound design to limit the entry of peripheral rays," he said.
All types of eyewear including prescription spectacles and contact lenses should absorb the entire spectrum, he added.

"These glasses must specify how much UV protection they provide."
The eye specialist also pointed out that the onset of presbyopia (inability to see close objects) occurs five years earlier in the Gulf region than in other climates.
He said many labourers in the UAE suffer from photokeratitis. It is sunburn of the cornea, resulting from excessive exposure to sunlight.

What to avoid: Taking precaution
* Wear specified sunglasses even on cloudy days

* Use dark curtains during daytime in homes having large windows

* Undergo regular eye tests to maintain their health
* Reduce the amount of time spent in the sunlight
* Avoid going to beach or boating and fishing during peak radiation time
* Do not wear short sleeve shirts
* Use sun block cream, protective clothes and hat before going out
* Drink plenty of water