Myth #4. Running with scissors is the leading cause of eye injury in children.
Fact. A recent national survey found that approximately 59% of pediatric eye injuries occur during sport and recreational events. The National Eye Institute also states that baseball is the sport responsible for the greatest number of eye injuries in children aged 14 and younger. However, basketball is the leading cause of eye injuries in those aged 15 to 24.
According to Prevent Blindness America, 72 percent of all sports-related eye injuries are to those aged 25 and younger. Yet, only 15 percent of children wear eye protection. Children should be encouraged to wear the appropriate safety eyewear, such as goggles or face masks, for every sport in which they participate.
"We need a cultural change in this country. Children who play contact sports such as basketball and baseball should be wearing eye protection -- most do not. Twenty years ago, very few children wore bicycle helmets; now a parent would be considered irresponsible if she sent her child out riding without a helmet. We need the same sense of concern when children play sports," said Dr. Borchert.
Myth #5. It is impossible to get young children to wear sunglasses.
Fact. "It is very important that young children wear sunglasses and the newer products with strap-on frames are easy for them to wear," said Dr. Borchert.
The lens of a child allows 70% more UV rays to reach the delicate retina than in an adult. Most parents are aware of the critical need to protect their children's skin from UV exposure with sun block, yet few insist their children wear sunglasses.
"If it is bright enough outdoors for you to be wearing sunglasses, your child should also be wearing them," said Dr. Borchert.
New, colorful sunglasses with Velcro straps, designed for infants and toddlers are available in stores and via the Internet. They are comfortable and provide excellent protection from UV rays and foreign objects. Most young children adapt to them easily.
SOURCE Childrens Hospital Los Angeles