Research shows half of Brits put eye health at risk

Fight for Sight has revealed that one in two people put their eye health at risk by not always wearing UV protective sunglasses in sunny weather.

A YouGov poll conducted on behalf of the charity found that 54% of adults in Great Britain never wear sunglasses when they are outside in the sunshine or only wear them sometimes. A total of 56% of adults were unaware that wearing UV protective sunglasses can reduce the chances of developing cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.

Dr Neil Ebenezer, director of research, policy and innovation at Fight for Sight, said: ‘Unfortunately these findings aren't surprising – we know that many people are unaware of the risks that sun damage can cause to the eye, and that people don't wear sunglasses enough. People should ensure that they buy sunglasses with the CE mark for UV protection to guarantee that they meet the European standard.’