Tag: eye health

Top Tips for UV Protection and Eye Health

UV Awareness Month highlights the risks of ultraviolet radiation, which can damage skin and lead to cancer. The American Academy of Dermatology advises practicing sun safety by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and using sunscreen. Healthy Vision Month emphasizes eye health, also by sun protection, healthy habits and smoking cessation to protect vision.

It’s UV Awareness Month!

What is UV, you ask? UV is ultraviolet radiation. We need to be aware of it because UV radiation, aka sunlight, can cause damage to human skin, including cancer.

This information is current as of the date of original publication or update but may have changed by the time you read this. Do not use this information for diagnosis or treatment purposes. Before making health decisions, discuss with a qualified healthcare professional.

UV is the root cause of most skin cancers. The American Academy of Dermatology, AAD, encourages us to take precautions. The AAD recommends that the public #PracticeSafeSun year-round by following three simple steps while outdoors:

  • Seek shade when appropriate
  • Wear sun-protective clothing
  • Apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher

Here are some examples of suitable products to consider, which include affiliate links.

SUNGLASSES

HATS

SUNSCREEN

Healthy Vision Month

This year for Healthy Vision Month, learn why you should make eye health a priority. Protecting your overall health preserves your vision health.

UV radiation can damage eyes as well as skin. Protecting the eyes from sunlight with quality sunglasses is just as important as wearing sunscreen.

Healthy habits like eating well and being active can lower your risk for diseases and conditions that can lead to eye or vision problems, like diabetes or high blood pressure. Follow these tips for healthy vision:

  • Eat healthy foods. Include plenty of dark, leafy greens like spinach, kale, and collard greens. Eat fish that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon, tuna, and halibut.
  • Get active. Being physically active helps you stay healthy. It lowers your risk of conditions that can cause vision problems, like diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
  • Quit smoking. Smoking isn’t just bad for your lungs — it can hurt your eyes, too! Smoking increases your risk of macular degeneration and cataracts.

When you’re ready to quit, call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669) for free support. You can also check out the resources on Smokefree.gov

a vision refractor

Take an Eye Health Trivia Test

Read more about sun and smoking here

Protecting Your Skin: Risks of Smoking and UV Exposure

Skin health is a significant concern for many, reflected in the multi-billion dollar skincare industry. Common skin issues can arise from lifestyle habits, notably smoking and excessive sun exposure. Smoking accelerates aging and skin diseases, while UV light causes damage and skin cancers. Preventative measures are essential for maintaining skin health.

Aletha Cress Oglesby, M.D.'s avatar by Aletha Cress Oglesby, M.D.

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