According to a survey commissioned by Transitions Optical, we as a nation are not as aware as we should be of the damaging effects that UV rays can have on eyesight. Whilst we all know about the damaging effects the sun can have on our skin, only 7% of us are additionally aware that prolonged exposure to the sun can damage our eyesight too*.
In direct response to this, local optometrist, Richard Petrie staged a special open day to urge people to treat their eyes the same as their skin and protect them whenever they go in the sun this summer.
The event, which was held at Richard Petrie’s practice on Burton Road in Littleover, gave existing patients and members of the public the opportunity to find out about the damaging effects of UV rays and view its extensive range on sunglasses
Guests also got a glimpse of Reykjavik Eyes, the pioneering new range of frames, which is now available exclusively at Richard Petrie. The Universal Design Award-winning frames are made from a single sheet of extra strong, flexible, lightweight titanium with no joints and, therefore, no weaknesses.
On the day each guest was entered into a prize draw to win a range of prizes. Mrs Jones from Mickleover won the reflections sunglasses she ordered on the day free of charge, whilst Mrs Collumbell from Littleover walked away with a bouquet of flowers donated by Beauty of Flowers in Littleover. Guests were also treated to drinks and nibbles and left with a goody bag each.
Commenting on the event, Richard Petrie said:
“The event was a great success and I would like to thank all of our guests and staff for making it such an enjoyable day.
“In the past, optometrists have been criticised for trying to promote awareness of UV damage to eyes and been accused of merely trying to swell their profits, but I can assure you this isn’t the reason.
“UV rays can destroy eyesight and put us at risk of developing conditions such as cataracts, macular degeneration, pterygium and skin cancer of the eye area, with children most vulnerable to photokeratitis and sun burn of the cornea that can cause temporary vision loss.
“Clinical research shows that these conditions are largely caused by UV radiation absorbed by the eye at a young age and only become evident in later life.”
Reykjavik Eyes are only available in Derby through Richard Petrie.
*Healthy Sight Research study carried out on behalf of Transitions Optical by IPSOS Health (survey base of 1001) in April 2008.
