Made in the SHADES
By Brent Propst

Prolonged Exposer to the sun without proper eye protection increases the chance of eye disease When it comes to preparing for an outdoor adventure on the Treasure Coast, people often forget about protection for there eyes. And as the ozone layer continues to be depleted and the emphas on outside activity on the rise, humans are being exposed to increasing amounts of ultraviolet radiation. The need to protect the eyes from ultraviolet radiation has long been documented, even for children, as a child's eye lens is relatively transparent and allows more UV rays to reach the retina, putting them at a higher risk of exposer. "Many studies confirm that prolonged exposer to the sun, without proper eye protection, increases the chance of developing eye disease," said Dr. Christopher Channon, an ophthalmologist who has practiced for 20 years with St. Lucie Eye Associates in Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie. "In a landmark study of Chesapeake Bay fishermen, cataracts were three times as likely to develop in those people who did not wear sunglasses or a brimmed hat. Some evidence suggests that macular degeneration is related to excessive light exposure." Macular degeneration is an unpredictable disease that destroys the macula, the area of the retina responsible for central vision. Age-related macular degeneration affects more than 13 million older adults and is the leading cause of blindness in the United States.

Channon also said that with excessive sun exposer there is temporary loss of contrast sensitivity. He says a full day of unprotected sun at the beach can slow dark adaptation for up to two days. And Channon acknowledges living in the Sunshine State adds to the risk of exposer. The intensity of UV radiation reaching the earth depends on the pureness of the atmosphere. In the hazy, polluted air of big cities, less UV radiation can be expected than in the cleaner air of seaside regions or locations closer to the equator. In other words, sun exposer is at one of the highest levels right here on the Treasure Coast. "Based on this [Chesapeake Bay] study, opthalmologists consider it wise to wear UV absorbent sunglasses, especially if you are at a high elevation or near the equator," Channon said. "And since exposure is cumulative, sunglasses are suggested even for children." So what type of sunglasses work best? Let's start with lens colors-- amber/orange tint, grey/green and copper/rose-- since all have a specific use. Amber and orange tints can block or alter blue light and help reduce macular degeneration of the retina, whicn Channon referred to. Dark grey or green tints are best for bright, sunny conditions, as they cut down on the amount of light that moves through the lens. And brown/rose colored tints are advised for use while driving, as this tint magnifies contrast so other vehicles and road signs can be better seen. When it comes to brand names, the list is virtually endless. There are designer names such as Calvin Klein, DKNY, Gucci, Polo-Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger. Anglers and those involved in outdoor activities tend to steer towards brands like Costa Del Mar, Maui-Jim, Ocean Waves and Ray-Ban, although models from H2Optix, Native Eyewear, Oakley, Lure Eyes, Killer Loop and Solar Bats work equally well. Dr. Gary Nesty, an optometrist and the owner of Solar Bat Sunglasses in Brazil, IN., says the extreme intensity of the sun can cause damage to the eyes without even feeling it. And he, too, say the effect of UV energy on the human lens can cause cataracts. "Ultraviolet exposure has been a precipitating factor in cataract formation," Nesty said of the disease that causes cloudiness of the clear natural lens that helps to focus light and create images on the retina." And cataracts are the leading cause of vision loss in adults 60 and over." Don Dingman, a spokeman for Ocean Waves Sunglasses in Atlantic Beach, said a day in the sun without eye protection could quickly lead to a headache. And Renata Parker, of Costa Del Mar in Ormond Beach, added that lens choice is important and that they should block 100 percent of UVA, UVB and UVC rays. As for the frames, again there are infinite choices. Some frames are made of metal, while others are crafted from a heavier plastic. There are even titanium frames. "We have used the new technology of 100 percent titanium in our product," said Jason Lloyd, president of Lure Eyes Sunglasses in Bentonville, AR." "Combining the titanium frames and the polycarbonate lens which won't allow for water spotting, these are some of the lightest glasses you will ever wear." Native Eyewear, headquartered in Huntington Valley, PA, has taken it one step further, providing a way for their sunglasses to be used for any sport in either water or on land, thanks to an interchangeable elastic band that can be swapped out. But as Channon says "Sunglasses need not be very expensive. More money will get you a more stylish frame or some extra features---photochromic, polarized, designer brand." And whatever you decide to spend on protecting your eyes is a wise investment. They are the only eyes you have and should be properly cared for.

Brent Propst
Gambler Boat National Team Member

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