Climate change threatens eye health: Rising risks and remedies
Recent research indicates that climate change affects eye health and can damage vision. This presents a significant challenge for health protection, necessitating decisive action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. How can we protect ourselves from the harmful effects of pollution and UV radiation?
Climate change impacts our lives and health. Recent studies show that it is not neutral for vision and increases the number of cases of patients suffering from cataracts, among other conditions. According to Science Alert, higher temperatures and increased exposure to UV radiation worsen eye health and contribute to a decline in our overall physical well-being.
The impact of heat and UV radiation
Rising temperatures on Earth lead to protein damage in the eye's lens, promoting the development of cataracts and, consequently, vision degradation. Research in Spain has shown that each 1°F increase in temperature causes an additional 370 cases of cataracts per 100,000 residents. Cataracts are characterized by the clouding of the lens, which leads to a gradual deterioration of visual clarity and, in advanced stages, can even result in vision loss. UV radiation also contributes to eye damage, increasing the risk of diseases such as conjunctivitis.
Other threats to eye health
Climate change leads to longer pollen seasons and an increase in mold, raising the risk of allergic conjunctivitis. In many countries, droughts cause nutritional deficiencies, which affect citizens' health, and a lack of a proper diet can damage the optic nerve.
Experts recommend that outdoor workers minimize sun exposure, take frequent breaks, and wear hats and sunglasses with UV filters. It is also important to consume foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E, and to avoid smoking and alcohol. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is crucial to protecting eye health on a global scale.
