Though the number of smokers in the U.K. is at an all-time low, there are around one in six adults that light up on a daily basis. While most people are aware that smoking can have a severe effect on physical health, from heart disease to lung cancer, not everyone knows just how much of an impact regular smoking can have on vision. Here are a few of the ways that cigarettes can affect overall eye health.
At this time of year, we get many people asking about novelty contact lenses. With lots of Halloween parties and events going on, it's a popular accessory, but there are true-to-life horrors that come with it...
Every September we see National Eye Health Week take place, a national awareness campaign to help us all enjoy healthier vision. Too many of us take the gift of sight for granted, so sometimes we just need a little reminder as to just how lucky we are.
A new study conducted by Johns Hopkins University presents a ray of hope for those living with age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The preliminary clinical trial introduced a therapeutic gene belonging to the Adeno-associated virus group (AAV2) into the eye, that delivered favourable results.
With summer now far behind us and the winter sports season upon us, it is essential to continue to raise awareness of the importance of protecting eyes from UV damage at all times. A UK survey of contact lens wearers has shown that while 65% of them are concerned about protecting their eyes from harmful UV rays only 6% consider using protection on a cloudy day. Further to this, 90% state they only feel exposed to UV rays in summer,1 however, it is well established that UV exposure can be a significant risk all year round and the hours of peak exposure for the eyes can differ from those of skin.
Believe it or not, contact lenses have been around for well over 100 years. Previously only available as rigid lenses, soft contact lenses became available more recently and quickly became the preferred choice. If you've been considering contact lenses but have been unsure of the benefits, the facts or the risks - look no further as we explain everything to you. We have more information across our Social Media platforms all week too!
Any parent will say how their children are their priority. However, many overlook their children's vision. If nothing is mentioned by the child we can easily assume all is well, but children can't always tell us if there is a problem with their sight. They don't know what clear vision is meant to be like! If you're a parent, when was the last time your child's vision was assessed?
Poor vision causes an estimated 3000 casualties on the road each year. Make sure you don't become a statistic - is your vision up to the legal requirement for driving?
We've covered some of the dangers of blue light over the past couple of months, but for this week of our Eyes on Health campaign, we will look in more detail at the causes and the measures you can take to prevent unnecessary damage to your vision. It may get a bit scientific but stick with it!
When considering your daily diet, as well as thinking about the benefits to your body, have you also thought about the benefits to your vision? Certain foods are very good for your eyes, whilst others aren't so good...