UK Health Security Agency issued the warning in a post shared online
Health experts issued an important warning (stock photo)(Image: Getty)
Health bosses have issued a warning to anyone who wears sunglasses. The alert comes amid the record-high temperatures, with the Met Office reporting that a scorching 35.1°C was recorded at Kew Gardens on Tuesday.
With more sunshine on the way, people are being urged to check for UV protection when purchasing sunglasses. UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has advised that people should complete the check whenever they buy new sunglasses, warning that not all styles offer protection against UV sun damage.
In a new post on X, UKHSA said: “Looking good shouldn’t come at the expense of your eye health. Some sunglasses are designed purely for style, so if you want real protection, always check for a UV rating. You can usually find it on the inside arm or as a sticker on the lens.”
The post continued: “Not all sunglasses offer UV protection. Take a look at their protection before you buy them.” The NHS recommends that people choose sunglasses with wraparound lenses or wide arms that carry the CE Mark and the British Standard Mark 12312-1:2013 E.
According to Moorfields Private Eye Hospital, excessive sun exposure can cause irreversible damage to someone’s eyesight. In some cases, it could lead to blindness.
Mr Raj Das-Bhaumik, Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon, said: “It’s extremely important to protect your eyes in the sun to reduce the risk of developing cataracts and a common type of skin cancer called basal cell carcinoma. You should buy sunglasses from a reputable retailer and check that they carry the CE mark to ensure that they will protect your eyes from harmful UV rays.”
During hot weather, it’s also important to practice sun safety and protect your skin. As the NHS explains: “Sunburn increases your risk of skin cancer. Sunburn does not just happen on holiday.
“You can burn in the UK, even when it’s cloudy. There’s no safe or healthy way to get a tan. A tan does not protect your skin from the sun’s harmful effects.” The NHS says to:
- spend time in the shade between 11am and 3pm
- never burn
- cover up with suitable clothing and sunglasses
- take extra care with children
- keep babies under six months out of direct sunlight
- use at least factor 30 sunscreen – make sure to use enough and re-apply frequently
The guidance continues: “The sun protection factor, or SPF, is a measure of the amount of ultraviolet B radiation (UVB) protection. SPFs are rated on a scale of two to 50+ based on the level of protection they offer, with 50+ offering the strongest form of UVB protection.”
