Newest report finds one of three adults overlooking sunglasses to protect eyes despite past harm.
Alexandria, VA (May 4, 2016) – The Vision Council is educating consumers on the serious eye health risks from exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays with the release of its newest UV protection report, Spare Your Sight: Using Shades for Protection and Style. The report released to 250 consumer reporters and editors, finds that three-quarters of Americans are concerned about potential eye problems from the sun’s UV rays, yet only 31 percent protect their eyes with sunglasses or other UV- protective eyewear every time they go outside. An abbreviated overview of the information was also shared with long-lead magazines in February of this year, promoting story ideas and supplements for their summer issues.
“Our goal at The Vision Council is to raise awareness about the risks of exposure to UV rays, and the sunglass options and other UV-protective eyewear available, so that more and more Americans are protecting their eyes,” said Mike Daley, the CEO of The Vision Council. “Consumers need to be aware of these issues, and the steps that they can take to prevent damage to the eyes throughout their lifetime.”
In addition to the newest edition of this annual consumer UV protection report, The Vision Council has also unveiled a second version of the report designed specifically for members of the optical industry. This report focuses on the statistical findings from VisionWatch data in order to inform readers about consumer perceptions of UV effects and UV-protective eyewear, and their knowledge of the many option available in today’s market, as well as a more detailed breakdown of the VisionWatch data giving members the information needed to make informed business decisions.
“Many consumers make sunglass purchases based on style and comfort, but fail to check the label to make sure lenses are UVA/UVB protective,” said Mike Daley, the CEO of The Vision Council. “By highlighting the cumulative and irreversible damage UV overexposure can cause, we hope to encourage Americans to make UV-eye protection an everyday habit to preserve their eyesight.”
The release of the reports coincides with May as UV Awareness Month, as consumers prepare for the start of summer and the Memorial Day holiday. The Vision Council is ramping up all UV protection activities including an ongoing partnership with Life Time Fitness as well as a widespread National Sunglasses Day campaign in advance of the June 27 commemorative date. Additional industry promotional efforts, which began in April, will continue throughout the summer with trade magazine and electronic advertisements supporting optical industry participation in National Sunglasses Day promotional activities.
The Vision Council encourages eye care providers to engage their patients in discussions about healthy vision maintenance, including the impact of UV exposure, as well as UV-protective eyewear options. To view or download a copy of the report, Spare Your Sight: Using Shades for Protection and Style, visit thevisioncouncil.org/UV.
About The Vision Council
Championing better vision for better lives, The Vision Council positions its members for success by promoting growth in the vision care industry through education, advocacy, research, consumer outreach, strategic relationship building and industry forums. By sharing the latest in eyewear trends, advances in technology and advice from eyewear experts, The Vision Council serves as a resource to the public
looking to learn more about options in eyeglasses and sunglasses. For more information, visit www.thevisioncouncil.org.
