The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), which measures UV radiation across 50 global cities, has given India another cause for concern. Most major cities in India receive extreme amounts of UV radiation, says a latest report submitted by the organisation. Are you a person whose work demands spending most part of the day under the scorching heat of the sun? Or are you an outdoor sportsperson who sweats it out in the hot sun? If the answer is yes, then your eyes are being exposed to the harmful ultra violet (UV) rays emitted from the sun. These UV rays have the potential to severely hamper your vision. They are becoming an important factor in eye problems such as cataract, retinal degeneration and medical conditions such as pterygium (growth of tissue in the front covering of the eye). “That’s where the growing importance of having contact lenses with UV protection comes in. UV protection soft lenses can prevent formation of ocular diseases and can also attenuate UV radiation and thus reduce probabilities of ocular diseases. According to the report released by Contact Lens Association of Ophthalmologists, Inc in 2003, UV blocking soft contact lenses are highly recommended to reduce the development of sun-related ocular pathologic conditions,” says Dr Keiki Mehta, ophthalmologist and president, Contact Lenses Society of India.

“Prolonged exposure of eyes to the sun rays is the key risk factor associated with formation of ocular diseases. This is even more critical at places near the equator and those located on higher altitudes as the UV rays are much more intense here. Exposure to UV rays kill outer surface of cells in the eye,” says Mehta. These dead cells reduce the flexibility and transparency of the eye. Thus a white layer (opaque layer) is formed on the surface of lens leading to cataract. Cataract formation can be delayed with use of contact lenses with UV protection that blocks the surface of the eye thereby curbing the opacity of the eye.

American Optometry Association (AOA) recommends the combined usage of sunglasses and UV blocking contact lenses to get maximum protection from UV rays that reach the cornea and get into the eye. The ability of UV blocking contact lenses to combat peripheral light focusing effect makes them an effective partner to sunglasses. “These lenses filter as much as 90 percent of the UV rays and cover the entire pupil thereby preventing light from striking the eyes from the sides In addition to these, protective gear such as wide rimmed hats should be taken along especially during summers. So, owning the right pair of contact lenses and sunglasses is good investment that helps in protecting your eyes and vision for years to come,” adds Mehta.