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why wear sunglasses?
Sunglasses are more than just a fashion item. They protect your eyes from UV radiation. Repeated exposure of the eyes to UV radiation can cause permanent eye damage including:
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cataracts |
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pterygium |
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cancer of the conjunctiva |
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skin cancer of eyelids and around the eyes |
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Children are particularly susceptible to UV exposure. The effects of UV radiation exposure are cumulative and can lead to eye disease later in life. Sunglasses, which meet the Australian Standard ASNZS1067:2003 and a broad-brimmed hat can reduce the amount of UV radiation that reaches the eyes by up to 98%.
The use of wrap-around, close-fitting, large sunglasses, helps to reduce reflected UV radiation and glare.
is a hat enough protection?
No. A hat does not provide sufficient protection from harmful UV radiation. The Cancer Council Australia recommends that when the UV Index reaches 3 and above, take five steps to protect yourself against sun damage.
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Slip on some sun protective clothing |
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Slop on SPF30+ sunscreen |
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Slap on a hat |
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Seek shade |
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Slide on some sunglasses | sunglasses are an essential part of sun protection in Australian conditions. |
when should sunglasses be worn?
The Cancer Council Australia, and World Health Organisation (WHO) recommend that sunglasses should be worn when:
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UV Index reaches 3 and above |
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Particularly between 11am and 3pm (daylight savings time) as 70% of the harmful UVB radiation that is received each day occurs within this time |
| For daily forecasts of the UV index for your city or town go to www.bom.gov.au/weather/uv | |
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will any sunglasses do?
No. Some sunglasses provide little or no protection from UV radiation. Avoid glasses labelled as "fashion glasses" or "toy" as these are not suitable for sun protection.
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are sunglasses safe for children?
Look for sunglasses with polycarbonate lenses. Polycarbonate is strong, durable and the most impact resistant material available. Caution should be exercised with some sports which may require specialised eye protection.
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should sunglasses be worn at school?
Yes. UV radiation is at its highest during school hours, so sunglasses should be a part of school wear every day. SunSmart guidelines throughout Australia now recommend the use of sunglasses when the UV index exceeds 3. Many schools are now incorporating sunglasses into their SunSmart policy and adopting sunglasses as a part of school uniform along with broad brimmed hats.
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need more information? 
For more information on the benefits of wearing sunglasses, see the following sites:
www.sunsmart.com.au
www.arpansa.gov.au
www.choice.com.au
www.bom.gov.au/info/about_uv.shtml
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