What you need to know about the sun and your eyes

The summer season is about having fun under the sun . While it’s all fun to play outdoors, prolonged exposure to the sun could bring you eye trouble. According to Asian Eye’s Cornea and External Disease Specialist Dr. Sharlene Noguera, the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays cause serious damage on the eyes. “Long-term sun exposure can have short-term or long-term effects on the eye. These UV rays can affect the cornea or the clear front window of the eye, which causes growths on the eyes. They can also pass through the cornea and affect the back part of the eye – usually, the lens and the retina.”

Among the eye diseases and conditions that people need to look out for include:

Photokeratitis – Also called corneal sunburn, photokeratitis is often a result of spending long hours at the beach or skiing without eye protection. It can be painful and may cause temporary vision loss.
Pterygium – It is characterized by a pink, fleshy tissue that starts growing on the sclera (the white of the eye) near the nose bridge. Eventually, it will cover your cornea and interfere with your vision.
Cataracts – It is the clouding of the natural lens of the eye, causing blurry vision. If left undetected or untreated, it may lead to blindness.
Age-related macular degeneration – AMD involves the loss of central vision. For people with AMD, it is as if they are seeing a black hole at the center. It is caused by the growth of weak blood vessels that leak blood in the retina.

Anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors is at risk for these eye problems. People who live in tropical climates like the Philippines and those who work under the sun for a long time like farmers, fishermen, seafarers, resort staff, traffic enforcers and construction workers are prone to these conditions.

“Filipinos love going to the beach, but they don’t know that UV levels are also higher in open spaces,” says Dr. Noguera, “Aside from UV rays from the sun, reflected UV rays are also dangerous. UV rays can also be reflected off surfaces like water, sand and pavements, so beach lovers, surfers and even those who like boating are also at higher risk.”

UV rays are also greater when the sun is high in the sky or from 10AM to 2PM. They are also present even when it’s cloudy.

While wearing sunglasses is a good idea when it comes to eye protection, it is important to note that not all sunglasses are the same. Dr. Noguera advises, “Make sure to get sunglasses from a reputable retailer. They should be able to block 100% of UV rays. A pair of wrap-around sunglasses or those with large lenses can help cover your eyes. For those with blurry vision, you can ask your optometrist for UV-coated contact lenses or prescription glasses.”

She also urges parents to protect their children’s eyes. “Children are not immune to sun damage. Their natural lenses are clearer than adults’, so they absorb more UV doses. Their natural lenses also transmit more UV radiation to the retina.” The retina is located at the back part of the eye and acts like the film in the camera. When light strikes, it “takes a picture” and sends it to the brain through the optic nerve.

“It’s better to start them young to minimize their risk of developing eye problems later in life,” she adds.

Asian Eye’s Dr. Robert Ang Wins Gold Medal at Cataract Olympics

At the recent American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) Annual Meeting on April 8, 2024, Dr. Robert Ang of Asian Eye was awarded a prestigious Gold medal in the Cataract Olympics for his video presentation titled “Cataract Technology Hurdles.”

Held in Boston, Massachusetts, USA from April 05 to 08, 2024, the annual meeting featured the participation of outstanding ophthalmologists and eye care professionals from across the globe. The Cataract Olympics symposium provided a platform for teams from leading organizations such as ASCRS, APACRS, ESCRS, and LASCRS to showcase their expertise and compete in various cataract categories making Dr. Ang’s achievement even more remarkable.

Dr. Ang’s award-winning video focused on the critical aspect of astigmatism correction during cataract surgery and offered valuable insights into using Toric (astigmatism) IOLs. His impressive win coincides with Cataract Awareness Month this June, a time dedicated to raising awareness about cataracts and educating the public about available treatment options.

This video competition not only showcases the expertise and skills of specialists like Dr. Ang but also provides a platform for sharing knowledge and exchanging ideas with doctors worldwide regarding new technologies and surgical techniques. By leveraging the power of visual media, these educational resources help advance the field of cataract surgery and benefit patients globally.

Cataracts are an age-related eye condition, where the normally clear lens of the eye becomes cloudy. Sometimes, it feels like looking at a fogged-up glass. If not treated, it can lead to blindness. Fortunately, surgery can be done to remove it. The ophthalmologist will remove the lens with cataract and replace it with an IOL. There are different kinds of IOLs available, all designed to improve vision.

Asian Eye takes great pride in the exceptional skills and expertise of their esteemed medical team, exemplified by the contributions of Dr. Robert Ang. Dedicated to providing patients with the highest standard of care, patients can have peace of mind when it comes to cataract surgery and other vision-related procedures at Asian Eye.

For more information about Dr. Robert Ang and the advanced ophthalmological services offered at Asian Eye, please visit www.asianeyeinstitute.com.

Cataract Awareness Month: Reclaim Your Freedom, Restore Your Sight

June is Cataract Awareness Month, and as a leading eye center in the Philippines, Asian Eye aims to celebrate and raise awareness about the importance of cataract screenings and drive more individuals to seek timely treatment for cataracts. Cataracts are a common concern among older Filipinos and one of the major causes of visual impairment. According to the Philippine Eye Research Institute, there are 1.18 million people suffering from cataracts, with roughly 400,000 needing surgery.

Cataracts are the clouding of the eye’s natural lens, which can lead to symptoms such as blurry vision, difficulty seeing at night, and increased sensitivity to glare. It can lead to blindness if left untreated, so it’s essential to have them removed when they begin to interfere with your daily activities, such as driving, watching TV, or cooking.

Cataract surgery is a common procedure that involves removing the cloudy natural lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens. Laser cataract surgery offers several advantages over traditional surgery, and Asian Eye is proud to offer patients with cutting-edge solutions for their eye care needs.

Asian Eye utilizes VICTUS Femtolaser technology from the renowned German brand Bausch + Lomb. This advanced technology is able to break up and remove the cloudy lens using significantly less energy, minimizing the risk of damage to surrounding tissues and promoting quicker healing.

Regular visits to your eye doctor are paramount, as they can advise you on the timing of the surgery and explain the benefits and risks involved. If you have an elderly loved one who complains of cloudy or blurry vision, consider giving them the gift of sight with the following Cataract Screening and Surgery deals:

40% off for one (1) cataract screening

50% off for two (2) or more cataract screenings

20% off on cataract surgery

*if scheduled within one (1) week after the screening or deposit is given within (2) weeks

It’s important to make informed decisions with a trusted eye care specialist and to book an appointment with Asian Eye to take proactive steps towards better vision and eye health.

Asian Eye Institute is located at Phinma Plaza, Rockwell Center, Makati with satellite offices located in TriNoma, Quezon City, and Mall of Asia, Pasay City. For inquiries and appointments, you may call 8898- 2020 or send an email to [email protected].

Dr. Robert Ang Recognized as one of the Top 100 in “The Power List 2024” by The Ophthalmologist

Dr. Robert Edward Ang, a distinguished specialist in Cataract, Glaucoma, and Cornea and Refractive Surgery (LASIK) at the Asian Eye Institute, has been honored once again by The Ophthalmologist Magazine in its prestigious 2024 Power List as one of the top 100 most influential eye care professionals in the world. Dr. Ang, notably the only Filipino listed, reaffirms his status with this second recognition. The first time he was listed in the top 100 was in 2018, highlighting his sustained contributions and leadership in the global ophthalmology community.

About Dr. Robert Edward Ang

As the Director of the Cornea and Refractive Surgery Service at the Asian Eye Institute, Dr. Ang is celebrated for his expertise in LASIK surgery and his pioneering research on technologies that enhance the diagnosis and treatment of various eye conditions. As the Director for Research and Training, his collaborative work with leading pharmaceutical and medical device companies has led to innovations in cataract intraocular lenses, presbyopic laser treatments, and minimally invasive glaucoma devices.

His accolades include multiple Best Paper of Session Awards from the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS), the Certified Educator Award from the Asia Pacific Association of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (APACRS), the Presidential Recognition Award from the International Society of Refractive Surgery (ISRS), the Geminiano de Ocampo Outstanding Researcher in Ophthalmology Award from the Philippine Academy of Ophthalmology (PAO) and the Senior Achievement Award from the Asia Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology (APAO).

Dr. Ang’s consistent recognition on such a significant global platform not only underscores his dedication and skill but also serves as an inspiration to current and aspiring ophthalmologists worldwide. His achievements continue to showcase the excellence and innovation present in Philippine medical practices.

Explore and Connect

Dr. Robert Ang has ongoing research projects on cataract, glaucoma, refractive lenses and laser eye surgery. To learn more about Dr. Ang’s impactful work and explore if, as a patient, you would like to be part of the pioneering research and eye care services at the Asian Eye Institute, please visit our website at asianeyeinstitute.com. For appointments, please refer to the contact details below:

ROCKWELL (Main Clinic)

8th, 9th, and 10th Floors, PHINMA Plaza

Rockwell Center, Makati City

LANDLINE (02) 8-898-2020

MOBILE 0918-898-2020

EMAIL [email protected]

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