The impact of LED’s and blue light on our living environment and human health has been widely assessed over the last decade. European research by the French authority ANSES (2016) describes how LED’s are going through significant technological development. The good news is that LED’s have less energy consumption. Blue light is also important for the proper regulation of melatonin in the body, which influences circadian (day and night) rhythms and our general well-being.
ANSES differentiates types of blue light in its report that have a phototoxicity risk and are potentially more harmful. Age-related macular degeneration, a leading cause of vision loss among people over 50, causes photochemical damage to the macula, a small spot near the centre of the retina we need for sharp central vision. Over long term exposure, the blue light in LED lighting that is increasingly used in our homes can damage the eye’s retina while disturbing our biological and sleep rhythms. In the world of optics, this is known as the ‘blue light hazard’.
ANSES believes the recommended maximum limit on short-term exposure to blue light should be reduced. Children and teenagers, whose eyes do not fully filter blue light, are particularly sensitive to the harms of cold blue light. The French authority advised that only low-risk LED devices be available to consumers and the luminosity of car headlights be reduced.
Of course we cannot avoid the environmental challenges of our modern day life. We can however mitigate the risks we face with the demands on our lifestyle. At Turners in Bridgwater Somerset, our optometrists recommend DuraVision® BlueProtect by ZEISS. This is a coating specially developed for people who spend a lot of their time indoors and are exposed to blue-violet light from LEDs as well as the television, computer or tablet screens.
When you choose your sunglasses or daily wear spectacles with us at Turners, find out how you can protect your eyes with complete confidence and comfort. Healthy vision is integral to your well being.
