News Briefs Archive

The Vision Council Releases 2016 UV-Protection Report

May 11, 2016

The Vision Council is educating consumers on the serious eye health risks from exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays with the release of its newest UV protection report, Spare Your Sight: Using Shades for Protection and Style.

The report, released to 250 consumer reporters and editors, finds that three-quarters of Americans are concerned about potential eye problems from the sun’s UV rays, yet only 31 percent protect their eyes with sunglasses or other UV-protective eyewear every time they go outside. An abbreviated overview of the information was also shared with long-lead magazines in February of this year, promoting story ideas and supplements for their summer issues.

In addition to the newest edition of this annual consumer UV protection report, The Vision Council has also unveiled a second version of the report designed specifically for members of the optical industry. This report focuses on the statistical findings from VisionWatch data in order to inform readers about consumer perceptions of UV effects and UV-protective eyewear, and their knowledge of the many options available in today’s market, as well as a more detailed breakdown of the VisionWatch data, intended to give members the information needed to make their business decisions.
The release of the reports coincides with May as UV Awareness Month, as consumers prepare for the start of summer and the Memorial Day holiday. The Vision Council is ramping up all UV protection activities including an ongoing partnership with Life Time Fitness, as well as a widespread National Sunglasses Day campaign in advance of the June 27 commemorative date. Additional industry promotional efforts, which began in April, will continue throughout the summer with trade magazine and electronic advertisements supporting optical industry participation in National Sunglasses Day promotional activities.
To view or download a copy of the report, Spare Your Sight: Using Shades for Protection and Style, visit thevisioncouncil.org/UV.

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