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Eye injuries in athletics and recreation
S M Napier1, R S Baker, D G Sanford
1Department of Ophthalmology, Neurology, Neurosurgery, University of Kentucky, Lexington, USA.
Survey of Ophthalmology
|November 1, 1996
Summary
Sports eye injuries are common, costing over $175 million annually. Protective eyewear, like polycarbonate lenses, is crucial for preventing these injuries, especially in children.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Sports Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Sports-related eye injuries are a significant global health concern.
- In the USA, over 100,000 physician visits annually result from sports eye injuries, costing more than $175 million.
- Baseball, ice hockey, and racquet sports contribute to a disproportionate number of injuries, particularly in the pediatric population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the prevalence and impact of sports-related eye injuries.
- To emphasize the need for effective prevention strategies and appropriate protective eyewear.
- To outline the role of ophthalmologists in sports eye injury prevention.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing data on sports-related eye injuries in the USA.
- Analysis of common injury types and participating sports.
- Evaluation of protective eyewear effectiveness.
Main Results:
- Sports account for over 100,000 physician visits yearly in the USA, with baseball, ice hockey, and racquet sports being leading causes.
- Pediatric athletes represent one-third of all sports-related eye injuries, with abrasions and contusions being most frequent.
- Polycarbonate lenses and sturdy frames offer optimal protection; lensless goggles and streetwear do not.
Conclusions:
- Implementing specific criteria for protective eyewear can significantly reduce sports-related eye injuries, as demonstrated in hockey.
- Ophthalmologists play a vital role in educating athletes, identifying at-risk individuals (e.g., one-eyed athletes), and advocating for proper eye protection.
- Development and enforcement of protective eyewear standards are essential for safeguarding athletes' vision.