Debate surrounding the claim that wearing sunglasses could be linked to a growing incidence of skin cancer has prompted fears that people may stop protecting their eyes in the sun.
In his latest book Survival of the Sickest, Dr Sharon Moalem suggests that wearing sunglasses tricks the brain into thinking it is dark and stops the body from starting the tanning process. Skin therefore burns more easily and increases the risk of skin cancer, he claims.
But Dr Martyn Allen, clinical director at Manchester-based Stuart Jones Styling Opticians, branded the claims 'irresponsible', adding that confusion could prevent people from protecting their eyes in the sun. 'While we aren't saying the links aren't true, such sweeping statements as this can cause more harm than good,' he told The Manchester Evening News (July 2). 'While melanomas may be serious, so is macular degeneration.' He added that sunglasses were the only effective way to protect the eyes and scaring people off wearing them would not protect their skin any more or less.
Dermatologists are reportedly calling for clear sunglasses so that the brain doesn't think it is dark, but Allen said: 'The report suggested that it is the UV which stimulates the hormone release, not just light. If this is the case, clear sunglasses will still put the wearer at risk. Plus, most people wear sunglasses for glare protection.'