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Pinellas Park, FL--(HISPANIC PR WIRE)--December 20, 2007--Most Hispanics do not realize that the sun is just as harmful during winter months as it is in the summer. A recent survey(1) by the New England Eye Institute and Transitions Optical, Inc., points out that Hispanics remain unaware of the dangers that extended exposure to harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays can have on their eyes, particularly as they are the ethnic group that spends most time outdoor exposed to sunlight. Hispanics spend an average of 4.7 hours per day outdoors surpassing all other ethnic groups.
“In cold weather, people don’t think they have to wear protective lenses because they primarily associate ultraviolet exposure with warmer temperatures,” said Dr. Madeline Romeu, O.D., and F.A.A.O. “UV exposure has to do with sun intensity and not heat. During winter months, the sun is lower in the sky and is positioned at more of a direct angle, causing intense glare and irritation.”
 In cold weather, people don’t think they have to wear protective lenses because they primarily associate ultraviolet exposure with warmer temperatures |
One crucial part of eyecare is scheduling regular eye exams. An eyecare professional can help detect problems early on and although UV damage can’t be reversed, there are lens options that protect the eyes from further damage. The cumulative effects of UV have been associated with early macular degeneration and cataracts. UV light is present 365 days a year and thus, it’s critical to select proper eyewear that blocks 100% of UVA/UVB rays.
“Any person who plans to spend any amount of time outdoors exposed to UV rays and glare from snow should consider protecting their eyes with photochromics, like Transitions(R) lenses. Transitions automatically block 100% of ultraviolet radiation and reduce painful glare. They are the ideal choice for prescription lens wearers,” said Dr. Romeu.
Hispanics should also consider the following tips to protect their eyes this winter:
1. Wear sunglasses that block 100% of UV light as overexposure to the powerful UV rays from the winter sun can cause cumulative eye damage
2. Consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat, a hooded jacket or coat and protective eyewear to block the cold wind from the eyes and prevent the tear film that covers the eyes from evaporating
3. Moisturize the delicate skin around your eyes during winter months
4. Drink lots of water to keep both the eyes and skin hydrated
For more information about year-round eyecare, visit transitions.com.
About New England Eye Institute
The New England Eye Institute is a network of eyecare centers and programs whose mission is to improve the visual health of populations through excellence in collaborative and community-oriented patient care, education and research. As the teaching affiliate of the New England College of Optometry, and through its ongoing collaboration with area health professionals, the New England Eye Institute offers specialized services for the whole-person that begins by focusing on comprehensive eyecare.
The New England Eye Institute aims to deliver excellent eyecare for all people at 44 health care facilities throughout Massachusetts.
About Transitions Optical, Inc.
Transitions Optical is a joint venture of PPG Industries, Inc. and Essilor International. The first to successfully commercialize a plastic photochromic lens in 1990, today the company is a leading supplier of photochromics to optical manufacturers worldwide. Transitions Optical offers the most advanced photochromic technology and the widest selection of lens designs, materials and brand names.
Transitions(R) lenses are as clear as regular eyeglass lenses until dangerous UV rays are present. Then, the brighter the sun, the darker they get – getting as dark as sunglasses, providing protection in bright, glaring light. Since Transitions lenses darken only as much as needed, they can be worn comfortably year-round to provide convenience and 100 percent automatic UVA/UVB and glare protection every day – sunny, cloudy or in between.
For more information about the company and Transitions lenses, the first to earn the American Optometric Association’s Seal of Acceptance for Ultraviolet Absorbers/Blockers, visit Transitions.com or contact Transitions Optical Customer Service at (800) 848-1506 (United States) or (877) 254-2590 (Canada).
1. Survey conducted on behalf of New England Eye Institute and Transitions Optical, Inc. from July 12 - 13, 2007 by Opinion Research Corporation
NOTE TO EDITORS: A high-resolution image is available at: http://www.hispanicprwire.com/home.php?l=in
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CONTACT
Burson-Marsteller
Sarah Lora
787.792.1717
or
Transitions Optical
Martha Rivera
727.545.0400 x1325 |
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