Participants and spectators are reminded to protect their eyes and skin from dangerous UV rays on and off the field

PINELLAS PARK, Florida, June 15 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ -- For many Hispanics the summer season is an eagerly awaited time to enjoy outdoor sports and activities. However, many forget to protect their eyes from invisible ultraviolet (UV) rays. Most people who practice outdoor sports -- particularly in the summer -- are conscious of the need to use sunblock to protect the skin, but few are aware that the eyes are at risk from the sun's damaging radiation.

Unprotected eyes are subject to numerous eye health issues, such as cataracts, Pterygium, and macular degeneration. UV rays have a cumulative effect, so when spending time outdoors it is important to take the proper precautions to protect the eyes.

"Although many Hispanics are careful when protecting their skin from the UV rays, it surprises me to see that very few extend that care to their eyes," said Dr. Madeline Romeu, O.D., F.A.A.O. "I recommend that all my patients who wear prescription lenses and spend time outdoors consider photochromics, such as Transitions(R) lenses."

Clear indoors, Transitions lenses automatically adjust to sunglass-dark to block 100 percent of UV rays and reduce painful and eye fatigue. Available in the widest range of lens designs and materials, including shatter-resistant polycarbonate, Transitions lenses are ideal for athletes and sports enthusiasts alike.

"Many sports, such as soccer and baseball are enjoyed by Hispanics. Participants and spectators are subject to long hours of sun exposure, which place the eyes at great risk for damage," said Martha Rivera, manager of Hispanic marketing for Transitions Optical. "We only have one pair of eyes and they must last a lifetime. Protecting your eyes today and everyday will help maintain long-term healthy sight and wellness."

Dr. Romeu offers recommendations that will help ensure the healthy sight of all Hispanics:

-- Schedule regular visits to your eyecare professional
-- Before going outdoors for an extended period of time, be sure to check the UV index in your area
-- Consider photochromics, like Transitions lenses to block 100 percent of UVA/UVB rays
-- Do not smoke
-- Drink eight to ten glasses of water daily to hydrate your body and eyes
-- Maintain a balanced diet

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 provider of photochromics to optical manufacturers worldwide. Transitions Optical offers the most advanced photochromic technology in the widest selection of lens designs, materials and brand names.

Transitions(R) lenses are the ideal everyday choice for healthy sight. They are clear indoors and at night. Outdoors, they automatically darken as light conditions change. Transitions lenses provide visual comfort, and enhance visual quality by reducing glare and enhancing contrast, helping you to see better today. Transitions lenses block 100 percent of harmful UVA and UVB rays -- helping to protect the health and wellness of your eyes -- so you can see better tomorrow as well.

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).