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Alam F, Alsharif A, AlModaf FO, El-Atab N. 3D-Printed Smartwatch Fabricated via Vat Photopolymerization for UV and Temperature Sensing Applications. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:14830-14839. [PMID: 38585121 PMCID: PMC10993352 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c07411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Ultraviolet (UV) exposure overdose can cause health issues such as skin burns or other skin damage. In this work, a UV and temperature sensor smartwatch is developed, utilizing a multimaterial 3D printing approach via a vat photopolymerization-digital light processing technique. Photochromic (PC) pigments with different UV sensitivities, UVA (315-400 nm) and UVB (315-280 nm), were utilized to cover a wider range of UV exposure and were mixed in transparent resin, whereas the smartwatch was printed with controlled thickness gradients. A multifunctional sensor was next fabricated by adding a thermochromic (TC) material to PC, which is capable of sensing UV and temperature change. Colorimetric measurements assisted by a smartphone-based application provided instantaneous as well as cumulative UV exposure from sunlight. The mechanical properties of the device were also measured to determine its durability. The prototype of the wearable watch was prepared by fixing the 3D-printed dial to a commercially available silicon wristband suitable for all age groups. The 3D-printed watch is water-resistant and easily removable, allowing for its utilization in multiple outdoor activities. Thus, the developed wearable UV sensor alerts the user to the extent of their UV exposure, which can help protect them against overexposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahad Alam
- Electrical
Engineering, Computer, Electrical, and Mathematical Sciences and Engineering
Division, King Abdullah University of Science
and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi
Arabia
- Materials
Science and Engineering Department, King
Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Dhahran 31261, Saudi Arabia
| | - Aljawharah Alsharif
- Electrical
Engineering, Computer, Electrical, and Mathematical Sciences and Engineering
Division, King Abdullah University of Science
and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi
Arabia
| | - Fhad O. AlModaf
- Electrical
Engineering, Computer, Electrical, and Mathematical Sciences and Engineering
Division, King Abdullah University of Science
and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi
Arabia
| | - Nazek El-Atab
- Electrical
Engineering, Computer, Electrical, and Mathematical Sciences and Engineering
Division, King Abdullah University of Science
and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi
Arabia
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2
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Masili M, Duarte FO, Ventura L. Calculation of solar ultraviolet influx in the eye considering the field of view and pupillary dilation due to sunglasses. Sci Rep 2024; 14:6604. [PMID: 38503785 PMCID: PMC10951290 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-50831-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The media and even the specialized literature report that the ultraviolet (UV) protection for sunglasses is critical, on the grounds that sunglasses can have a counter effect if the lenses do not provide adequate UV protection. They reason that the primary and natural mechanism is that the pupil of the eye contracts to attenuate radiation and protect the inner eye under sun exposure. Therefore, if dark lenses do not provide appropriate UV protection, there is an increased UV incidence in the inner eye due to pupil dilation, which enhances the adverse effects and impacts the ocular tissues more severely than in situations without UV protection. However, no existing literature properly quantified or supported this argument. In this work, the influx of solar UV throughout the pupil of the eye was calculated in two situations: when a person wear sunglasses and when he/she does not. In both situations, the pupil dilation and the field of view (squint) were considered with their dependence on the brightness of the ambient, calculated by modeling the solar irradiation. Finally, it was assessed whether sunglasses with poor UV protection actually increase the UV influx throughout the dilated pupil compared to the non-dilated pupil. A set of 214 sunglasses lenses were tested and the results show that pupil dilation does not play an important role in the UV influx throughout the pupil. It was observed that the FOV is the main player, surpassing the pupil size contribution by up to 314.3%, disproving the common explanation. Because of the major role of the FOV, our results show that sunglasses with UV-A protection below 86% may have a slight potential to increase hazards to the eye compared to not wearing sunglasses at all. These results can have direct impact on sunglasses standards regarding the UV protection linked to the category of the lenses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Masili
- Department of Electrical and Computing Engineering, São Carlos School of Engineering, University of São Paulo, Av. Trabalhador Sancarlense 400, São Carlos, SP, 13566-590, Brazil
| | - Fernanda O Duarte
- Department of Electrical and Computing Engineering, São Carlos School of Engineering, University of São Paulo, Av. Trabalhador Sancarlense 400, São Carlos, SP, 13566-590, Brazil
| | - Liliane Ventura
- Department of Electrical and Computing Engineering, São Carlos School of Engineering, University of São Paulo, Av. Trabalhador Sancarlense 400, São Carlos, SP, 13566-590, Brazil.
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3
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Tod B, Whitaker D, Visser W, Isaacs T, Jacobs T, Wiid K, Dlova NC, Wright CY. Integrated sun protection advice for the South African population. Int J Dermatol 2024; 63:277-287. [PMID: 38124402 DOI: 10.1111/ijd.16980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is associated with several cutaneous adverse effects. However, to the best of our knowledge, in South Africa there are no formal guidelines on sun protection. A group of South African dermatologists and researchers convened over the course of 1 year to deliberate on integrated advice for sun protection among the multi-ethnic South African population. For people with light skin and those with genetic skin disorders (e.g., oculocutaneous albinism), sun protection was identified as critical to prevent sunburn, skin cancer, and photoaging. The evidence is less clear for people with medium and darker skin types, especially the latter, in whom melanin may confer a degree of protection against some parts of the solar spectrum. Recent studies have demonstrated that visible light can cause pigmentary changes in individuals with darker skin types in particular. Sun protection for people of all skin colors is beneficial to protect against photoaging and ocular damage. Herein sun protection advice is suggested for South Africans of all skin colors to reduce morbidity and mortality from sun exposure, particularly relating to skin cancer. Several knowledge gaps are identified as future research priorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Tod
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Willie Visser
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Thuraya Isaacs
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Kim Wiid
- L'Oréal Dermatological Beauty, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Ncoza C Dlova
- Dermatology Department, Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Caradee Y Wright
- Climate Change and Health Research Programme, Environment and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Geography, Geoinformatics and Meteorology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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4
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Marro M, Moccozet L, Vernez D. A numerical model for quantifying exposure to natural and artificial light in human health research. Comput Biol Med 2024; 171:108119. [PMID: 38367446 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2024.108119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
Various skin and ocular pathologies can result from overexposure to ultraviolet radiation and blue light. Assessing the potential harm of exposure to these light sources requires quantifying the energy received to specific target tissue. Despite a well-established understanding of the light-disease relationship, the quantification of received energy in diverse lighting scenarios proves challenging due to the multitude of light sources and continuous variation in the orientation of receiving tissues (skin and eyes). This complexity makes the determination of health hazards associated with specific lighting conditions difficult. In this study, we present a solution to this challenge using a numerical approach. Through the implementation of algorithms applied to 3D geometries, we created and validated a numerical model that simulates skin and ocular exposure to both natural and artificial light sources. The resulting numerical model is a computational framework in which customizable exposure scenarios can be implemented. The ability to adapt simulations to different configurations for study makes this model a potential investigative method in human health research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Marro
- University of Geneva, Centre Universitaire d'informatique, Battelle, Batiment A, 7 Route de Drize 1227 Carouge (CH), Switzerland.
| | - Laurent Moccozet
- University of Geneva, Centre Universitaire d'informatique, Battelle, Batiment A, 7 Route de Drize 1227 Carouge (CH), Switzerland.
| | - David Vernez
- University of Lausanne, Center for Public Health and Primary Care Medicine (Unisanté), 44 Rue du Bugnon 1011 Lausanne (CH), Switzerland.
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Modenese A, Chou BR, Ádám B, Loney T, Silva Paulo M, Tenkate T, Gobba F. Occupational Exposure to Solar Radiation and the Eye: A Call to Implement Health Surveillance of Outdoor Workers. LA MEDICINA DEL LAVORO 2023; 114:e2023032. [PMID: 37534422 PMCID: PMC10415847 DOI: 10.23749/mdl.v114i4.14657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
Globally, hundreds of millions of outdoor workers are exposed to solar radiation (SR) for the majority of their working life. Such occupational exposure is known to induce various adverse health effects to the eyes, mainly related to its ultraviolet (UV) component. The present work is a call-to-action aimed at raising the awareness on the need of health surveillance for the prevention of the chronic ocular diseases in outdoor workers. Photo-chemical chronic damage can induce pterygium at the outer layer of the eye and cataract in the lens. Considering carcinogenic effects, rare squamous-cells tumors of the cornea and/or of the conjunctiva and the ocular melanomas are associated with UV radiation exposure. Solar UV-related eye diseases should be considered as "occupational diseases" when there is sufficient exposure in workers, but they are often not recognized, and/or frequently not reported to the national compensation authorities. Therefore, to prevent the burden of these work-related eye pathologies, an adequate risk assessment with identification of appropriate preventive measures, and a provision of periodic health surveillance to the exposed workers, in particular considering those at higher risk of exposure or with individual susceptibility, should be urgently implemented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Modenese
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena (Italy).
| | - B Ralph Chou
- School of Optometry & Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Balázs Ádám
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Tom Loney
- Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, PO Box 505055, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Marilia Silva Paulo
- CHRC, NOVA Medical School|Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS|FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa (Portugal).
| | - Thomas Tenkate
- School of Occupational and Public Health, Toronto Metropolitan University, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Fabriziomaria Gobba
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena (Italy).
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Neale RE, Lucas RM, Byrne SN, Hollestein L, Rhodes LE, Yazar S, Young AR, Berwick M, Ireland RA, Olsen CM. The effects of exposure to solar radiation on human health. Photochem Photobiol Sci 2023:10.1007/s43630-023-00375-8. [PMID: 36856971 PMCID: PMC9976694 DOI: 10.1007/s43630-023-00375-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
This assessment by the Environmental Effects Assessment Panel (EEAP) of the Montreal Protocol under the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) evaluates the effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation on human health within the context of the Montreal Protocol and its Amendments. We assess work published since our last comprehensive assessment in 2018. Over the last four years gains have been made in knowledge of the links between sun exposure and health outcomes, mechanisms, and estimates of disease burden, including economic impacts. Of particular note, there is new information about the way in which exposure to UV radiation modulates the immune system, causing both harms and benefits for health. The burden of skin cancer remains high, with many lives lost to melanoma and many more people treated for keratinocyte cancer, but it has been estimated that the Montreal Protocol will prevent 11 million cases of melanoma and 432 million cases of keratinocyte cancer that would otherwise have occurred in the United States in people born between 1890 and 2100. While the incidence of skin cancer continues to rise, rates have stabilised in younger populations in some countries. Mortality has also plateaued, partly due to the use of systemic therapies for advanced disease. However, these therapies are very expensive, contributing to the extremely high economic burden of skin cancer, and emphasising the importance and comparative cost-effectiveness of prevention. Photodermatoses, inflammatory skin conditions induced by exposure to UV radiation, can have a marked detrimental impact on the quality of life of sufferers. More information is emerging about their potential link with commonly used drugs, particularly anti-hypertensives. The eyes are also harmed by over-exposure to UV radiation. The incidence of cataract and pterygium is continuing to rise, and there is now evidence of a link between intraocular melanoma and sun exposure. It has been estimated that the Montreal Protocol will prevent 63 million cases of cataract that would otherwise have occurred in the United States in people born between 1890 and 2100. Despite the clearly established harms, exposure to UV radiation also has benefits for human health. While the best recognised benefit is production of vitamin D, beneficial effects mediated by factors other than vitamin D are emerging. For both sun exposure and vitamin D, there is increasingly convincing evidence of a positive role in diseases related to immune function, including both autoimmune diseases and infection. With its influence on the intensity of UV radiation and global warming, the Montreal Protocol has, and will have, both direct and indirect effects on human health, potentially changing the balance of the risks and benefits of spending time outdoors.
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Affiliation(s)
- R. E. Neale
- Population Health Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD Australia ,School of Public Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD Australia
| | - R. M. Lucas
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT Australia
| | - S. N. Byrne
- School of Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - L. Hollestein
- Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands ,Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - L. E. Rhodes
- Dermatology Research Centre, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, Salford Royal Hospital, Northern Care Alliance NHS Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - S. Yazar
- Garvan Medical Research Institute, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | | | - M. Berwick
- University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, Albuquerque, USA
| | - R. A. Ireland
- School of Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - C. M. Olsen
- Population Health Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD Australia ,Frazer Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD Australia
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7
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Kamińska A, Pinkas J, Tyszko P, Wrześniewska-Wal I, Jankowski M. Eye Care Behaviors among Adults in Poland: A Nationwide Cross-Sectional Survey. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3590. [PMID: 36834285 PMCID: PMC9962256 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20043590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Implementation of eye care behaviors may reduce the risk of eye symptoms and diseases. This study aimed to assess eye care behaviors and identify factors associated with eye care practices among adults in Poland. This cross-sectional survey was carried out between 9 and 12 December 2022 on a nationwide random quota sample of adults in Poland. The study questionnaire included a set of questions on 10 different eye care behaviors. The study population included 1076 participants with a mean age of 45.7 ± 16.2 years, and 54.2% of participants were females. The most common (30.2%) eye care behavior was the use of good lighting indoors, and 27.3% used sunglasses with a UV filter. More than one-fifth of participants declared taking regular screen breaks and limiting screen time. Less than one-tenth of participants used dietary supplements with lutein, beta-carotene, or zinc. Out of 12 factors assessed in this study, self-reported knowledge of eye diseases was the most important factor associated (p < 0.05) with eye care behaviors. There were no economic or educational gaps (p > 0.05) in the implementation of most of the eye care behaviors among adults in Poland. This study revealed a low level of implementation of eye care behaviors among adults in Poland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Kamińska
- Faculty of Medicine, Collegium Medicum, Cardinal Stefan Wyszynski University, 01-938 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jarosław Pinkas
- School of Public Health, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, 01-826 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Piotr Tyszko
- Department of Social Medicine and Public Health, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-007 Warsaw, Poland
- Institute of Rural Health in Lublin, 20-090 Lublin, Poland
| | - Iwona Wrześniewska-Wal
- School of Public Health, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, 01-826 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Mateusz Jankowski
- School of Public Health, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, 01-826 Warsaw, Poland
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8
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Marro M, Moccozet L, Vernez D. Assessing Human Eye Exposure to UV Light: A Narrative Review. Front Public Health 2022; 10:900979. [PMID: 35875046 PMCID: PMC9300719 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.900979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure to ultraviolet light is associated with several ocular pathologies. Understanding exposure levels and factors is therefore important from a medical and prevention perspective. A review of the current literature on ocular exposure to ultraviolet light is conducted in this study. It has been shown that ambient irradiance is not a good indicator of effective exposure and current tools for estimating dermal exposure have limitations for the ocular region. To address this, three methods have been developed: the use of anthropomorphic manikins, measurements through wearable sensors and numerical simulations. The specific objective, limitations, and results obtained for the three different methods are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Marro
- Computer Science Center, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Laurent Moccozet
- Computer Science Center, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - David Vernez
- Center for Public Health and Primary Care Medicine (Unisanté), University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Abtahi M, Dobaradaran S, Koolivand A, Jorfi S, Saeedi R. Burden of disease induced by public overexposure to solar ultraviolet radiation (SUVR) at the national and subnational levels in Iran, 2005-2019. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 292:118411. [PMID: 34718085 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.118411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Estimating the burden of diseases induced by overexposure to solar ultraviolet radiation (SUVR) can help to prioritize environmental health interventions. The age-sex specific and cause-specific mortality and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) attributable to overexposure to SUVR at the national and subnational levels in Iran, 2005-2019 were estimated. The burden of disease induced by overexposure to SUVR was quantified in four steps as follows: (1) estimating exposure to SUVR, (2) estimating total incidences and deaths of target causes, (3) assessing population attributable fractions of the target causes for the SUVR, and (4) calculating the attributable burden of disease. The attributable DALYs, deaths, age-standardized DALY rate, and age-standardized death rate at the national level were determined to be respectively 21896, 252, 42.59, and 0.56 in 2005 and were respectively changed to 28665, 377, 38.76, and 0.53 in 2019. The contributions of causes in the attributable DALYs at the national level were different by year and sex and for both sexes in 2019 were as follows: 46.15% for cataract, 20.36% for malignant skin melanoma, 16.07% for sunburn, 12.41% for squamous-cell carcinoma, and 5.01% for the other five causes. The contributions of population growth, population ageing, risk exposure, and risk-deleted DALY rate in the temporal variations of the attributable burden of disease in the country were +20.73%, +20.68%, +2.01%, and -12.51%. The highest and lowest provincial attributable age-standardized DALY rates in 2019 were observed in Fars (46.8) and Ardebil (32.7), respectively. The burden of disease induced by exposure to SUVR caused relatively low geographical inequality in health status in Iran. Due to increasing trends of the SUVR as well as the attributable burden of disease, the preventive interventions against the SUVR overexposure should be considered in the public health action plan all across the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrnoosh Abtahi
- Workplace Health Promotion Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sina Dobaradaran
- Systems Environmental Health and Energy Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran; Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Health and Nutrition, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Ali Koolivand
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Health, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Sahand Jorfi
- Environmental Technology Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran; Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Reza Saeedi
- Workplace Health Promotion Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Health and Safety, and Environment (HSE), School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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National and subnational burden of disease attributable to occupational exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation (SUVR) in Iran, 2005-2019. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2021; 240:113897. [PMID: 34861595 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2021.113897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Overexposure to solar ultraviolet radiation (SUVR) can cause skin and eye adverse effects for outdoor workers. In this study, the burden of disease induced by occupational exposure to SUVR and its spatiotemporal trend at national and sub-national levels in Iran, 2005-2019 were assessed. The attributable burden of disease was assessed using the following five datasets: (1) distribution of occupational exposure to SUVR, (2) total incidences and deaths of health outcomes of SUVR exposure, (3) population attributable fractions of the health outcomes of SUVR exposure, (4) age-gender distribution of outdoor workers, and (5) disability-adjusted life year (DALY) calculation constants. During 2005-2019, the attributable DALYs increased from 2442 to 2907 and the attributable DALY rate (per 100,000 workers) slightly decreased from 11.94 to 11.91. The share of YLL in the attributable burden of disease was in the range of 43%-46%. Out of nine causes, about 90% of the attributable burden of disease in 2019 was related to cataracts (29.9%), malignant skin melanoma (27.4%), squamous-cell carcinoma (18.6%), and sunburn (17.2%). During the study period, the attributable DALY rate in women increased by 60.95% (from 5.04 to 8.11) and in men decreased by 2.06% (from 13.03 to 12.76). The total attributable DALYs and DALY rate rose by age during 2005-2019. The contributions of population growth, risk-deleted DALY rates, exposure risk, and population age structure in temporal changes of the attributable burden of disease were 19.27%, 9.13%, -1.35%, and -14.8%, respectively. The three highest attributable DALY rates in 2019 were observed in South Khorasan (21.28), Chahar Mahal and Bakhtiari (17.42), and Kordestan (17.26), respectively. The preventive interventions against SUVR overexposure, regular screenings, and early treatments with an emphasis on occupations with continuous sun exposure and provinces with increasing attributable DALY rates should be considered in the occupational health action plan in the country.
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11
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Fam A, Vohra R, Vadhar NR, Dastjerdi MH. Pterygium Recurrence Rates in the Hispanic Population in the Northeastern United States. J Curr Ophthalmol 2021; 33:298-303. [PMID: 34765818 PMCID: PMC8579800 DOI: 10.4103/joco.joco_99_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To determine the rate and factors affecting pterygium recurrence in the Hispanic population of the Northeastern United States, based on patient demographic information. Methods: In this retrospective cross-sectional study, data were collected on ethnically Hispanic patients from 2013 to 2018 who had primary single-headed pterygia excision and conjunctival autograft, with the minimum of 4-month follow-up time. This study was conducted in an academic institution in the Northeastern United States, with all patients being from the surrounding community. Results: In 168 Hispanic patients with confirmed primary single-headed pterygium, most pterygia occurred nasally (161/168). The average age of presentation was 46.3 ± 12.0 years (range, 23–77 years). There were 22 recurrences (13.1%), occurring at an average of 3.0 ± 1.6 months (1–8 months). This cohort demonstrated a unimodal recurrence distribution. Age is significantly inversely correlated with the incidence of recurrence (r = −0.219, P = 0.004), but not with the size of the recurrent pterygia (r = −0.112, P = 0.621). There was no significant difference between recurrence based on gender (P = 0.265), location (P = 0.824), or laterality (right or left eye) (P = 0.213). Mean corrected visual acuity improved from 20/40 to 20/32 after pterygium excision (P < 0.001). Cox regression analysis for age groups shows the risk of recurrence for patients aged 20–29 is 11.4-time that of patients aged 50 and above (P < 0.001). Conclusions: Recurrence occurred unimodally at around 3 months postoperatively. Younger patients are significantly more susceptible to recurrence. Future studies may seek to determine the incidence of pterygia and their recurrence patterns in relation to occupations and sun exposure time in a geographic area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Fam
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Reshma Vohra
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Neil R Vadhar
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Mohammad H Dastjerdi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
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Gholamnia R, Abtahi M, Dobaradaran S, Koolivand A, Jorfi S, Khaloo SS, Bagheri A, Vaziri MH, Atabaki Y, Alhouei F, Saeedi R. Spatiotemporal analysis of solar ultraviolet radiation based on Ozone Monitoring Instrument dataset in Iran, 2005-2019. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 287:117643. [PMID: 34182400 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.117643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) at national, provincial and county levels in Iran during 2005-2019 were determined based on Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) dataset. The temporal (annual and monthly) trends and spatial distributions of the UVR in terms of erythemally weighted daily dose (EDD), erythemally weighted irradiance at local solar noon time (EDR), and UV index and the major factors influencing the spatiotemporal trends were analyzed. The population-weighted average values of EDD, EDR, and UV index in Iran were respectively 3631 J/m2, 176.3 mW/m2, 7.1 in 2005 and rose by 0.22% per year to 3744 J/m2, 181.7 mW/m2, and 7.3, respectively in 2019, but the annual trend was not statistically significant. The EDD in Iran during the study period exhibited the highest monthly average value in June (6339 J/m2) and the lowest one in December (1263 J/m2). The solar UVA/UVB ratios at the national level during 2005-2019 were considerably lower in summer. The EDD provincial average values in the study period were in the range of 2717 (Gilan) to 4424 J/m2 (Fars). The spatiotemporal variations of the solar UVR parameters were well described by the linear models as a function of cloud optical thickness (COT), ozone column amount, surface albedo, latitude, and altitude (R2 > 0.961, p value < 0.001) and the temporal changes of the solar UVR parameters were mainly caused by the COT. The results indicated that non-burning exposure to solar UVR in summer can be more efficient for vitamin D synthesis due to higher contribution of UVB in the solar UVR. The spatial distributions and temporal trends should be considered to determine the optimal duration, time and condition of exposure to the solar UVR for the public and occupational training and public health measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Gholamnia
- Workplace Health Promotion Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Health and Safety, and Environment (HSE), School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehrnoosh Abtahi
- Workplace Health Promotion Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sina Dobaradaran
- Systems Environmental Health and Energy Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran; Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Health and Nutrition, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Ali Koolivand
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Health, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Sahand Jorfi
- Environmental Technology Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran; Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Shokooh Sadat Khaloo
- Workplace Health Promotion Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Health and Safety, and Environment (HSE), School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amin Bagheri
- Workplace Health Promotion Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Health and Safety, and Environment (HSE), School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Vaziri
- Workplace Health Promotion Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Health and Safety, and Environment (HSE), School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yasamin Atabaki
- Department of Occupational Health and Safety at Work, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farnaz Alhouei
- Department of Occupational Health and Safety at Work, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Saeedi
- Workplace Health Promotion Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Health and Safety, and Environment (HSE), School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Chen LJ, Chang YJ, Shieh CF, Yu JH, Yang MC. Relationship between practices of eye protection against solar ultraviolet radiation and cataract in a rural area. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0255136. [PMID: 34324583 PMCID: PMC8321156 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0255136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cataract is a public health concern worldwide that differentially affects rural residents of outlying islands where ultraviolet radiation (UVR) may have greater penetration because of less shading. Objectives To assess the relationships between attitudes and practices of eye protection and eye diseases for residents of an offshore island of Taiwan. Methods Questionnaire survey was administered to local residents (age > 50 years) regarding socio-demographic information, attitudes/practices of eye protection under sun exposure and eye diseases. Results A total of 816 participants (response rate 90.7%, 816/900) completed the questionnaires. Mean age was 63.7 (+ 10.8) years. Among these participants, 44.4%, 15.1% and 8.3% had cataract, dry eye and glaucoma, respectively. Although 86.3% and 88.2% of participants agreed that they should avoid outdoor activities and wear glasses/broad-brimmed hats in harsh daylight, 69.4% and 48.3% of participants never/rarely used glasses or hats/umbrellas in harsh daylight, respectively. Predictors of less practices of eye protection against solar UVR included residents who were male, with lower education level, with longer residence and lack of commercial health insurance. Multivariate logistic regression revealed that practices of eye protection under sun exposure were significantly associated with less cataract, but not glaucoma or dry eye. Participants who did not wear glasses, broad-brimmed hats/use umbrellas or both in harsh sunlight (almost) every time were respectively associated with a 57% (P = 0.028), 45% (P = 0.027) or 70% (P = 0.026) increase of cataract than those who did in harsh sunlight (almost) every time. Conclusions Practices of eye protection under sun exposure is associated with lower risk of cataract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Ju Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Heping Fuyou Branch, Taipei City Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- University of Taipei, Taipei, Taiwan
- Institute of Health Policy and Management, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
- * E-mail: (LJ); (MY)
| | - Yun-Jau Chang
- Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Surgery, Zhongxing branch, Taipei City Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | | | - Jy-Haw Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Heping Fuyou Branch, Taipei City Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Chin Yang
- Institute of Health Policy and Management, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
- * E-mail: (LJ); (MY)
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Linde K, Wright CY, Kapwata T, du Plessis JL. Low Use of Ocular Sun Protection among Agricultural Workers in South Africa: Need for Further Research. Photochem Photobiol 2021; 97:453-455. [PMID: 33492701 DOI: 10.1111/php.13388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Although ocular diseases related to solar ultraviolet radiation exposure have a high prevalence in Africa, little is known about the occupational use of ocular photoprotective measures on the continent. In a survey of South Africa farmworkers on a farm in the Limpopo Province, we analyzed factors related to ocular sun protection including use of different types of hats and sunglasses in relation to age, gender and duration of agricultural employment. Majority of participants (80%) never wore sunglasses while 23% never wore a hat when working. More male workers used measures to protect their eyes than female workers. The type of hat most worn was a cap although broad-brimmed hats provide more effective photoprotection. The need for awareness campaigns that focus on the importance of using photoprotective measures in both an agricultural and South Africa contexts was identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karlien Linde
- Occupational Hygiene and Health Research Initiative (OHHRI), North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.,Department of Physiology and Environmental Health, University of Limpopo, Sovenga, South Africa
| | - Caradee Yael Wright
- Environmental and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), Pretoria, South Africa.,Department of Geography, Geoinformatics and Meteorology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Thandi Kapwata
- Environmental and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), Pretoria, South Africa.,Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Fekadu SA, Assem AS, Adimassu NF. Prevalence of pterygium and its associated factors among adults aged 18 years and above in Gambella town, Southwest Ethiopia, May 2019. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0237891. [PMID: 32881888 PMCID: PMC7470263 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0237891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A pterygium is a wing-shaped fibro-vascular growth of conjunctiva on the superficial cornea/conjunctiva. It is an elastotic degeneration of conjunctival stroma mainly due to Ultraviolet light exposure. The prevalence of pterygium varies in different environmental conditions. Its magnitude varies widely from 1.1% to 53% globally and in Ethiopia, it reaches from 8.8% to 38.7%. OBJECTIVE To determine the prevalence of pterygium and its associated factors among adults aged 18 years and above in Gambella town, Southwest Ethiopia, 2019. METHODS AND MATERIALS A community based cross-sectional study was conducted from April 15 to May 3, 2019, in Gambella town. A total of 402 study participants were selected using a systematic random sampling technique. A pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire, torch, and magnifying loops were used to collect data. The data was entered into epidemiological information 7.1 and exported to statistical package for social science version 20 for analysis. The binary and multivariate logistic regression analysis model was fitted to identify factors associated with pterygium. Odds ratio with respected 95% CI was used to identify the direction and strength of association. RESULTS A total of 400 participants were examined with a response rate of 99.50%. The mean age of the study participants was 39.9±9.8years. The prevalence of pterygium among adults aged 18 years and above in Gambella town was 127(31.80%), (95% CI: 27.3, 36.3). male sex (AOR = 2.10 (95% CI: 1.26, 3.45), sunlight exposure (AOR = 6.86 (95% CI: 4.00, 11.79) and outdoor works (AOR = 2.10 (95% CI: 1.21, 3.60) were positively associated with pterygium whereas wearing sunglass/hat was a protective factor. CONCLUSION The prevalence of pterygium was high among adults living in Gambella town. Wearing sunglass/hat and reducing exposure time to the sun was important to reduce the development of pterygium in adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofonias Addis Fekadu
- Department of Optometry, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Abel Sinshaw Assem
- Department of Optometry, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Nebiyat Feleke Adimassu
- Department of Optometry, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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Moon BY, Kim SY, Yu DS. Differences in the optical properties of photochromic lenses between cold and warm temperatures. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0234066. [PMID: 32470032 PMCID: PMC7259785 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0234066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of our study was to quantitatively evaluate the optical properties of photochromic lenses available on the market under cold and warm temperatures corresponding to the winter and summer seasons. The transmittance of 12 photochromic lenses from five manufacturers was measured using an UV/VIS spectrophotometer at cold (6 ± 2°C) and at warm (21 ± 2°C) temperatures. Transmittances were recorded from 380 to 780 nm and at the wavelength with maximum absorbance, which was calculated from the transmittance. The characteristics of the lenses were evaluated by examining changes in the optical properties at colorless and colored states and in the fading rate depending on temperature. The wavelength with maximum absorbance for photochromic lenses at the cold temperature showed a shorter shift than that at the warm temperature. The photochromic properties at the cold temperature were 11.5% lower for transmittance, 1.4 times higher for the change in optical density, and 1.2 times higher for the change in transmittance in the colored and colorless states, optical blocking % ratio, and change in luminous transmittance as compared to those at the warm temperature in the colored state. The fading rates based on the half-life time at the cold temperature were from 2.7 to 5.4 times lower than those at the warm temperature. The fading time until 80% transmittance was 6.4 times longer at the cold as compared to that at the warm temperature. There were significant differences in the optical properties of the photochromic lenses in terms of an absorbance at a shorter wavelength, a lower transmittance, a higher optical density, optical blocking % ratio, and luminous transmittance at the cold as compared to the warm temperature. Hence, it is necessary to provide consumers with information on photochromic optical properties, including the transmittance in colored and colorless states, and the fading rates at temperatures corresponding to the summer and winter seasons for each product.
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Affiliation(s)
- Byeong-Yeon Moon
- Department of Optometry, Kangwon National University, Samcheok, Korea
| | - Sang-Yeob Kim
- Department of Optometry, Kangwon National University, Samcheok, Korea
| | - Dong-Sik Yu
- Department of Optometry, Kangwon National University, Samcheok, Korea
- * E-mail:
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Association of cataract and sun exposure in geographically diverse populations of India: The CASE study. First Report of the ICMR-EYE SEE Study Group. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0227868. [PMID: 31971985 PMCID: PMC6977762 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0227868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 01/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To determine the prevalence of cataract and its association with sun exposure and other environmental risk factors in three different geographically diverse populations of India. Design Population based cross sectional study during 2010–2016 Participants People aged ≥ 40 years residing in randomly sampled villages were enumerated (12021) and 9735 (81%) underwent ophthalmic evaluation from plains, hilly and coastal regions (3595, 3231, 2909 respectively) Methods A detailed questionnaire-based interview about outdoor activity in present, past and remote past, usage of sun protective measures, exposure to smoke, and detailed ophthalmic examination including assessment of uncorrected and best corrected visual acuity, measurement of intraocular pressure, slit lamp examination, lens opacities categorization using LOCS III and posterior segment evaluation was done. Lifetime effective sun exposure was calculated using Melbourne formula and expressed as quintiles. These were supplemented with physical environmental measurements. Main outcome measures Lifetime sun exposure hours, smoking, indoor kitchen smoke exposure and their association with cataract and subtypes. Prevalence of cataract calculated based on lens opacities or evidence of cataract surgery. Results Cataract was identified in 3231 (33.3%) participants. Prevalence of cataract in males (32.3%) and females (34.1%) was similar. Nuclear cataract was the commonest sub-type identified in 94.7% of affected eyes. Sun exposure had a significant association with cataract with odds ratio (OR) increasing from 1.6 (95% Confidence Intervals [CI]: 1.4, 1.9) in 3rd quintile, to 2.6 (CI: 2.2, 3.1) in 4th quintile and 9.4 (CI: 7.9, 11.2) in 5th quintile (p<0.0001). Cataract also showed a significant association with smoking (OR: 1.4, CI: 1.2, 1.6) and indoor kitchen smoke exposure (OR: 1.2, CI: 1.0–1.4). Nuclear cataract showed a positive association with increasing sun exposure in 3rd (β coefficient 0.5, CI:0.2–0.7), 4th (β: 0.9, CI: 0.7–1.1) and 5th (β: 2.1, CI:1.8–2.4) quintiles of sun exposure, smoking (β: 0.4, CI: 0.2–0.6) and indoor kitchen smoke exposure (β: 0.3, CI: 01–0.5) while cortical cataract showed a positive association with sun exposure only in 5th quintile (β: 2.6, CI:1.0–4.2). Posterior subcapsular cataract was not associated with any of the risk factors. Conclusion Cataract is associated with increasing level of sun exposure, smoking and exposure to indoor kitchen smoke.
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Isser M, Kranebitter H, Kühn E, Lederer W. High-energy visible light transparency and ultraviolet ray transmission of metallized rescue sheets. Sci Rep 2019; 9:11208. [PMID: 31371746 PMCID: PMC6671957 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-47418-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Metallized rescue sheets are essential components in first aid boxes and professional emergency equipment for provision of thermal insulation. We investigated the transparency for visual light and the transmission of ultraviolet radiation and high-energy visible light in the violet/blue band of rescue sheets under laboratory conditions to evaluate the potential of blocking solar radiation during outdoor activities. An experimental study was performed using two commercially available brands of rescue sheets. Transmission of visible light and ultraviolet light was assessed by optometry. Single-layer transparency for visible light was between 1% and 8%. Transmission for high-energy visible light in the violet/blue band and ultraviolet A rays was between 1% and 13% for the single layer and between 0% and 3% for the double layer of the rescue sheets. Transmission for ultraviolet B rays afforded by each tested rescue sheet brand was between 0% and 1% for the single layer. Double-layer rescue sheets blocked 100% of ultraviolet B radiation. In conclusion, single layer rescue sheets were sufficiently permeable for visible light and diminished transmission for ultraviolet radiation and high-energy visible light in the violet/blue band to potentially protect from solar radiation if used for facial protection and as makeshift sun googles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Isser
- Medical Division, Mountain Rescue Tyrol, Telfs, 6410, Austria
| | - Hannah Kranebitter
- Medical Division, Mountain Rescue Tyrol, Telfs, 6410, Austria.,Medical University of Innsbruck, Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Innsbruck, 6020, Austria
| | - Erich Kühn
- Private Polytechnic Institute of the State of Tyrol - College of Optometry, Hall, 6060, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Lederer
- Medical University of Innsbruck, Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Innsbruck, 6020, Austria.
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Lanca C, Teo A, Vivagandan A, Htoon HM, Najjar RP, Spiegel DP, Pu SH, Saw SM. The Effects of Different Outdoor Environments, Sunglasses and Hats on Light Levels: Implications for Myopia Prevention. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2019; 8:7. [PMID: 31360613 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.8.4.7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Lack of outdoor time is a known risk factor for myopia. Knowledge of the light levels reaching the eye and exposure settings, including sun-protective measures, is essential for outdoor programs and myopia. We evaluated the impact of sun-protective strategies (hat and sunglasses) on maintaining high illuminance levels to prevent myopia. Methods A child-sized mannequin head was developed to measure light illuminance levels with and without sun-protective equipment, across a wide range of environments in Singapore, outdoors (open park, under a tree, street) and indoors (under a fluorescent illumination with window, under white LED-based lighting without window). A comparison was made between indoor and outdoor light levels that are experienced while children are involved in day-to-day activities. Results Outdoor light levels were much higher (11,080-18,176 lux) than indoors (112-156 lux). The higher lux levels protective of myopia (>1000 lux) were measured at the tree shade (5556-7876 lux) and with hat (4112-8156 lux). Sunglasses showed lux levels between 1792 and 6800 lux. Although with sunglasses readings were lower than tree shade and hat, light levels were still 11 to 43 times higher than indoors. Conclusions Recommendations on spending time outdoors for myopia prevention with adequate sun protection should be provided while partaking in outdoor activities, including protection under shaded areas, wearing a hat or sunglasses, sunscreen, and adequate hydration. Translational Relevance Light levels outdoors were higher than indoors and above the threshold illuminance for myopia prevention even with adequate sun-protective measures.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Aaron Teo
- University of Southampton Malaysia (UoSM), Johor, Malaysia
| | | | - Hla M Htoon
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore.,Duke-NUS Medical School, Eye ACP, Singapore
| | - Raymond P Najjar
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore.,Duke-NUS Medical School, Eye ACP, Singapore
| | - Daniel P Spiegel
- Vision Sciences, Essilor R&D, Center for Innovation and Technology, Singapore
| | - Suan-Hui Pu
- University of Southampton Malaysia (UoSM), Johor, Malaysia
| | - Seang-Mei Saw
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore.,Duke-NUS Medical School, Eye ACP, Singapore.,Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore
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