Warm, sunny days have finally arrived — but while enjoying the sunshine, don’t put your eye health at risk. According to experts, counterfeit sunglasses that are widely sold on the market may open the door to serious eye diseases, including cataracts and macular degeneration.

Eye Health is Not Age-Dependent
With the sun now higher in the sky, UV rays hit more directly and can lead to serious eye conditions. Studies show that individuals exposed to UV radiation for prolonged periods have a 60% higher risk of developing cataracts. And this risk isn’t limited to older adults — people in their 20s and 30s are also considered high-risk. Sunglasses stand out as one of the most practical ways to protect your eyes. When properly chosen, they can help prevent UV-induced issues such as cataracts, macular degeneration, pterygium (surfer’s eye), and corneal damage.

Symptoms May Vary
Depending on where the cataract forms in the lens, symptoms can differ. In myopic eyes, vision can worsen rapidly, and astigmatism may develop. Cataract patients may see shadows, perceive colors as dull or faded, and experience more difficulty seeing in either bright or dark environments. Other signs include double vision, blurred or distorted vision, loss of depth perception, eye fatigue, and headaches linked to developing astigmatism.

Why Are Fake Sunglasses Dangerous?

• Dilated pupils: Dark lenses trick the eyes into thinking there is less light, causing the pupils to dilate.
• More UV exposure: Dilated pupils allow more harmful UV rays to enter the eye.
• Lens and retina damage: As the eye struggles to filter this intense light, the lens and retina can be damaged, significantly increasing the risk of cataracts.

One of the rules to be considered when buying sunglasses should be antireflective and ultraviolet-blocking coating. It is necessary to use eyewear approved by the Ministry of Health. Eyewear bought cheaply from the street vendors often do not carry these features. This eyewear is very harmful to eye health. For this reason, you should definitely buy your sunglasses from optical stores.

June 2025