Issue 6.17
We have long known that the UV-A and UV-B energy just below the visible spectrum harms the sensitive retinal structures inside of our eyes. Surprisingly, it turns out that there is a portion of the visible spectrum that is harmful as well. And unfortunately it is the short wavelengths between 380 and 500 nm, the blue stuff that comes in concentrated doses from our handheld devices. The modern LED backlighting that is part of nearly all new screen technology comes in heavy doses. When you consider the relatively new phenomenon that the world is suddenly captivated, even dominated by screen-time, the implications are staggering.
Blue light between 380 and 500 nm chemically damages the photo-receptors that are concentrated in the macula, and the effects appear to be cumulative over time. The rising generation could see a marked increase in macular degeneration and blindness as they enter their senior years compared to those of us who lived our lives getting the smaller doses found in nature.
Lens manufacturers have responded to this new source of risk by adding blue light filter technology to their lens products that don’t make the lenses appear tinted. At SouthWest Vision, we use Essilor’s Smart Blue FilterTM which reduces harmful blue light by 20%. If we add an anti-glare coating called ProvenciaTM, we reduce the harmful rays by a total of 30%.
We urge parents everywhere to consider the effects of screen time on their children for many reasons that are beyond the scope of this article. We also encourage everyone who spends much time on their devices to consider protecting their eyesight with the proper filters that are becoming available in today’s modern opticals. If you are concerned or have questions about how to better protect your eyes, call and make your appointment today to sit down with one of our doctors to answer your questions. 435-414-1616 or www.southwestvision.org