Protecting Your Eyes at Every Age

Eyes Safety Essentials for April’s Sports Eye Safety Month

Each year, over 100,000 people are hurt by sports-related eye injuries. About 13,500 of these injuries result in permanent vision loss. In support of Sports Eye Safety Month this April, the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) reminds athletes everywhere that the vast majority of sports-related eye injuries can be avoided by simply wearing the proper protection.
“Sports-related eye injuries are more common than most people realize, and many of them are preventable,” says Dr. Steven Rhee, D.O., of Hawaiian Eye Center. “Many of these injuries happen because we sometimes neglect to wear the appropriate eye protection, or, because of an unexpected injury or accident.”
The AAO emphasizes that wearing protective eyewear, including goggles, face shields, and sports-specific eyewear, can significantly reduce the risk of eye injuries and prevent permanent damage to vision.
Some sports pose a higher risk to the eyes than others, like martial arts, or those involving fast-moving projectiles like soccer balls, basketballs, tennis balls, or pickle balls.
“Here in Hawaii, for ocean safety, we say, ‘when in doubt, don’t go out,’ but for other sports, we want everyone to say, ‘Eye Protection is Life Protection,” says Dr. Rhee. “”By prioritizing our eye health today, you can help keep yourself healthy for years to come.”
With an increased focus on the safety of athletes, the AAO is encouraging athletes, coaches, and their family members to make eye protection a top priority. Regardless of the sport or your age, the message is clear: protect your eyes, protect your future.
Hawaiian Eye Center has been serving Hawaii for over 45 years, providing full-service eye care for the entire family.