April marks Sports Eye Safety Month, a timely reminder of the role eye care professionals play in preventing sports-related eye injuries. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, more than 30,000 sports-related eye injuries are treated in U.S. emergency rooms each year — and 90% of them are preventable with proper protective eyewear. (source)
For optometrists, opticians, and ophthalmologists, this month presents an opportunity to educate patients — especially parents of young athletes — on the importance of eye protection during play. Whether in school gyms, neighborhood parks, or professional arenas, one thing is clear: vision should never be left unprotected.
The Most At-Risk Sports
While any sport can pose a risk, the most eye-threatening activities tend to fall into two categories:
- High-risk sports: Basketball, baseball, racquetball, hockey, and martial arts — where flying objects or fingers to the eye are common.
- Moderate-risk sports: Tennis, soccer, and football — where contact is possible, though less frequent.
Prevent Blindness reports that basketball leads the pack in eye injuries for players 15 and older, while baseball and softball are the top culprits for younger athletes. (source)
ANSI-Rated Options Available from Amcon Labs
Standard eyeglasses and everyday sunglasses are not sufficient for protection during sports. Patients need impact-resistant protective eyewear that meets or exceeds ANSI Z87.1 standards, which ensure protection against high-velocity and high-mass impacts.
At Amcon Labs, we carry a selection of protective eyewear designed for safety, comfort, and performance. These frames are ideal for both recreational and professional athletes and can be used for a variety of sports or industrial settings where eye protection is essential.
Supportive Products for Athletes and Their Eyewear
In addition to protective frames, Amcon offers the tools and accessories needed to keep sports eyewear clean and functioning at its best:
- Lens Cleaning Solutions: Helps maintain visibility by removing smudges and debris.
- Microfiber Cloths: Gentle on polycarbonate lenses and perfect for daily use.
- Eyeglass Repair Tools: Allow in-office or on-the-go adjustments and maintenance.
How Eye Care Professionals Can Promote Sports Eye Safety
April is a prime time to:
- Review protective eyewear options with your patients who play sports
- Update educational materials in your waiting room or on your website
Final Thoughts
As trusted vision care providers, we’re in a unique position to change the statistics on sports-related eye injuries. Let’s use Sports Eye Safety Month to remind patients that protecting their sight should always be part of the game plan.
