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Climate Change and Your Eyes: A Worrying Trend in New Zealand

We all know about the impacts of climate change on our weather, our landscapes, and our communities. But did you know it's also putting your eyesight at risk? While factors like UV exposure, genetics, and aging have long been known to contribute to eye conditions like cataracts – affecting a staggering 94 million people worldwide – a new and concerning culprit has emerged: climate change.

What's the Link?

The connection may not be immediately obvious, but research is increasingly revealing a complex relationship. Climate change isn't just about rising temperatures; it's about a cascade of environmental changes that directly and indirectly impact eye health. Let's break down some of the key ways this is happening:

• Increased UV Radiation: A thinning ozone layer, exacerbated by climate change, allows more harmful UV radiation to reach the Earth's surface. This significantly increases the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and pterygium (a growth on the eye's surface). New Zealanders, with our relatively high UV index, are particularly vulnerable.
• Air Pollution: More frequent and intense wildfires, droughts, and dust storms, all linked to climate change, contribute to increased levels of air pollution. Tiny particles in the air irritate the eyes, worsen existing conditions, and may even accelerate the development of cataracts and other eye diseases.
• Extreme Weather Events: Flooding, cyclones, and severe storms can cause physical eye injuries and disrupt access to eye care services, especially in rural communities.
• Changes in Disease Vectors: Climate change is shifting the geographic range of disease-carrying insects. This could lead to increased prevalence of eye infections transmitted by insects.

Beyond Cataracts: Other Eye Risks

While cataracts are a major concern, climate change is also linked to an increased risk of other eye problems, including:

• Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): Linked to increased UV exposure and oxidative stress.
• Dry Eye Syndrome: Worsened by air pollution and changes in humidity.
• Conjunctivitis (Pinkeye): Increased risk due to changes in environmental conditions and potential spread of infectious agents.

Protecting Your Eyes in a Changing Climate

The good news is that there are steps you can take to protect your eyes from the effects of climate change:

• Wear Sunglasses: Choose sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays, even on cloudy days.
• Stay Indoors During Peak UV Hours: Limit your exposure to the sun between 10 am and 4 pm.
• Protect Yourself from Air Pollution: Wear a mask when air quality is poor.
• Stay Hydrated: Adequate hydration helps keep your eyes lubricated.
• Regular Eye Exams: Early detection is key to managing and treating eye diseases. Make sure you have regular check-ups with an optometrist or ophthalmologist.

Looking Ahead: A Call to Action

The impact of climate change on eye health is a growing concern that demands our attention. By understanding the risks and taking proactive steps to protect our eyes, we can mitigate the effects of a changing climate and preserve our vision for years to come. Let’s advocate for policies that address climate change and support research into the link between environmental factors and eye health.