With More Outdoor Activities in May: “Don’t Let Your Guard Down” — Early Midsummer-Level UV Rays Raise Red Flags for Eye Health

Ultraviolet Rays Are Strongest from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
UV400 Sunglasses Recommended

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With ultraviolet (UV) rays at midsummer levels continuing into May, extra attention is required for eye health management.

According to statistics from the Korea Meteorological Administration, the average UV index in May is similar to that of June and approaches the levels seen in the height of summer, July and August.

On May 13, the medical community stated that prolonged exposure to UV rays significantly increases the risk of ophthalmic diseases such as cataracts and macular degeneration.

Repeated long-term exposure to UV rays is more dangerous than brief, intense exposure. UV-induced eye damage accumulates and progresses over several years at low levels.

When UV-B rays enter the eye, most are absorbed by the lens. During this process, reactive oxygen species (oxidative stress) increase. This leads to denaturation of lens proteins and a decrease in transparency, ultimately causing the lens to become cloudier and raising the risk of cataracts.

Although age-related cataracts are the most common type, among external factors that cause cataracts, UV rays are the most dangerous. For patients already suffering from cataracts, UV rays accelerate the aging of the lens and can worsen the condition, so careful management is necessary.

The macula, the center of the retina, is also affected by cumulative UV exposure, which can lead to macular degeneration. Since the macula is difficult to recover once damaged, preventing accumulated light damage is extremely important.

To prevent cataracts and macular degeneration, wearing sunglasses for UV protection is recommended. It is best to choose products that are certified as 'UV400', which means they can block over 99% of ultraviolet rays (UVA, UVB) with wavelengths below 400mm.

UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., so outdoor activity times should be adjusted accordingly.

Managing daily habits is also essential. Smoking greatly increases the risk of macular degeneration, while diabetes accelerates retinal damage.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.