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[Preventive measures against ocular trauma on squash courts]
A Leuba1, M Secrétan, T J Wolfensberger
1Hôpital Ophtalmique Jules Gonin, Université de Lausanne, Suisse.
Klinische Monatsblatter Fur Augenheilkunde
|June 23, 2000
Summary
Squash clubs show low interest in protective eyewear, with most underestimating ocular trauma risks. This highlights a need to educate players about the dangers of squash ball injuries.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Sports Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Squash-ball induced trauma is a significant cause of severe ocular injuries.
- Protective goggles are effective in preventing these injuries.
- The adoption of protective eyewear in sports settings requires investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of protective goggle availability and promotion in Swiss Squash Clubs.
- To assess the perceived risk of ocular trauma among squash club members.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire was distributed to 82 Squash Clubs across Switzerland.
- Data collected included goggle availability, promotional materials, and perceived risk of eye injury.
- Response rates were analyzed by language region (French-speaking vs. German-speaking).
Main Results:
- Low response rates from Swiss Squash Clubs (35% French-speaking, 32% German-speaking).
- Protective goggles were available for purchase in only 4% of responding clubs.
- Only 7% of clubs displayed posters promoting eye protection, and 18% planned to introduce such measures.
- A significant majority (63%) perceived the risk of ocular injury as low or very low.
Conclusions:
- Swiss Squash Clubs demonstrate a minimal interest in protective eyewear.
- The risk of serious ocular injury from squash is widely underestimated by clubs.
- There is a critical need to raise awareness about the dangers of eye trauma in racket sports.