EXPERT'S VOICE

SCIENCE

CLINIC

MARKET WATCH

PRODUCT

ART & VISION

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

EDITORIAL N°71 by Eva LAZUKA

PREVENTION, THE PATH TO FOLLOW

It’s eleven o’clock in the morning, the sun is at its height on one of the most beautiful beaches on the island of Milos. A little girl barely three years old is walking along the sea. Her face is in the sun, her eyes are squinting in the dazzle. She’s crying. Her parents at her side are both wearing sunglasses, but not her. Does this scene remind you of anything?

Market studies reveal that the rate of sunglass equipment is higher with adults than with children. The differences are often very significant and no country in the world is an exception to the rule. Why? Scientific and clinical communities, the world of industry, health professional organizations and consumer associations are all increasingly committed to prevention programs. However, there is still a lot to be done in the prevention of eye diseases. Today, scientists and clinicians agree on the fact that protection against the harmful effects of light (UV and blue-violet, the most energetic portion of the visible spectrum) must begin at the earliest age. Among the risk factors (such as genetics, smoking, diet, etc.), chronic exposure to harmful light has clearly been identified as the pathogenesis of numerous ocular diseases. However, these cumulative effects are not yet well known to everyone.

To better understand the risks and consequences of phototoxicity, we invited experts from around the world to share their knowledge and opinions on the matter of prevention. In this issue, we welcome twenty-six experts: researchers, physicians, prescribers, specialists in photo-protection, market research, etc., and even a young artist! They deliver a multidisciplinary perspective on the theme of prevention: the state of the art in science, new methods of patient care in clinical practice (early detection, genetic testing, nutraceuticals, photo-selective filters), specific preventive habits in the world, as well as therapeutic perspectives.

Medical research keeps on progressing, preventive solutions are already available to prescribers… all that remains now is to educate and involve the public concerned. Patients should be aware that the potential risks of ocular phototoxicity can be dramatically reduced, if only by simply wearing photoprotective filters.

One girl in two born today in developed countries will live one hundred years or more. Will she have a better and longer life through good eye health? This question shows us the direction we must take... that of prevention. See you in a hundred years!