Kids should wear sunglasses, but don't

Were you of the impression that sunglasses are a dispensable fashion accessory, and your children don't really need them? Well, you might share a lot of company in being wrong.

A survey has found that most parents are cavalier about protecting their children's eyes, with 76% of those interviewed admitting that their child does not always wear sunglasses.

This is certainly not because they do not love their children, as the same percentage admitted that they make their offspring wear sun screen to shield them from Ultra Violet rays.

Exposure to sunlight can damage the retina and the lens of the eye and can lead to long-term damage, and has been linked to conditions such as cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.

The survey of 2,000 parents conducted by The College of Optometrists also found that 29% have never bought sunglasses for their children, and those who did tended to put price above protection, with only 25% buying a reputable brand.

Dr Susan Blakeney, optometric adviser at The College of Optometrists, said: "I am astounded to see that of those who do, many are opting for 'cheap and cheerful' over quality. Sunglasses don't need to be expensive to offer good protection but it is important for parents to check that the pair they buy carry a CE Mark."

Children with light coloured eyes are most at risk from sun damage and should always wear sunglasses, the study said.

This article was published on Tue 18 August 2009