Eyecare professionals agree that ultraviolet (UV) radiation can have a significant impact on the quality of eye health, yet a recent survey(1) shows consumers are largely unaware of the harm that extended sun exposure can have on the eyes. Understanding the hazards of UV radiation is the focus of Prevent Blindness America's National Sight-Saving Month in May, and educating consumers on how to protect their eyes year-round is the cornerstone of Transitions Optical's consumer education initiative.

UV radiation is comprised of invisible high-energy rays from the sun that are present every day, and more than 97% of this radiation is absorbed by the eye. Prevent Blindness America affirms there are scientific reasons to be concerned with how UV absorption by the eye may contribute to a number of serious eye conditions such as cataracts, hardening of the eye's lens, and macular degeneration.

"With summer just around the corner and UV index levels peaking at this time, it's important that we heighten awareness of the dangers that UV presents to our eyes and the sensitive skin around them," said Dr. Madeline Romeu, O.D., F.A.A.O. "But as UV radiation is present 365 days a year regardless of a sunny or cloudy day, it is critically important that both adults and children are vigilant in protecting their eyes year-round."

One excellent method of protection for prescription lens wearers is photochromic lenses. Transitions(R) Lenses are the #1 brand of photochromic lenses recommended by eyecare professionals worldwide. Transitions Lenses are clear indoors and darken when exposed to UV light, blocking 100% of the sun's eye-damaging rays and reducing painful, discomforting glare.

Transitions Optical has been a trusted optical industry partner for years and has worked to educate consumers on the importance of healthy sight. A recipient of the prestigious American Optometric Association (AOA) Seal of Acceptance for Ultraviolet Absorbers/Blockers, Transitions Lenses also recently became the first eyewear product to receive the World Council of Optometry's (WCO) Global Seal of Acceptance for Ultraviolet Absorbers/Blockers, which ensures the lenses provide the recommended amount of UV blockage.

A long standing industry leader of consumer education, Transitions has launched "Eye Didn't Know That!" - an interactive exhibit, dynamic Web site and youth outreach program that is considered to be the largest education initiative on eye health to date. "Eye Didn't Know That!" is designed to help people of all ages learn more about healthy vision, and the program's Web site can be accessed at http://www.eyedidntknowthat.info.

About Transitions Optical, Inc.

Transitions Optical is a joint venture of PPG Industries, Inc. and Essilor International. The first to successfully commercialize a plastic photochromic lens in 1990, today the company is a leading supplier of photochromics to optical manufacturers worldwide. Transitions Optical offers the most advanced photochromic technology and the widest selection of lens designs, materials and brand names.

Transitions(R) Lenses are as clear as regular eyeglass lenses until dangerous UV rays are present. Then, the brighter the sun, the darker they get - getting as dark as sunglasses, providing protection in bright, glaring light. Since Transitions Lenses darken only as much as needed, they can be worn comfortably year-round to provide convenience and 100% automatic UVA, UVB and glare protection every day - sunny, cloudy or in between.

For more information about the company and Transitions Lenses, visit http://www.transitions.com or contact Transitions Optical Customer Service at (800) 848-1506 (United States) or (877) 254-2590 (Canada).

(1) Survey conducted on behalf of Transitions Optical, Inc. from March 9- 13, 2006 by ICR Media, Pa.

Source: prnewswire