As April’s Youth Sports Safety Month continues, we recognize at Hilco Vision the opportunity to promote awareness and education on the importance of injury prevention for young athletes, especially considering the value of sports for physical fitness, skill development, and socialization with respect to our youngest patients.
By partnering with eye care professionals to emphasize the crucial role eye health plays in the well being of young athletes, we can ensure that children can enjoy these benefits while safeguarding their eye health. As a united front, let’s continue to prioritize proper eye protection, regular check-ups, and education to prevent sports-related eye injuries in children.
The Importance of Eye Protection in Youth Sports
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, “nearly 30,000 sports-related eye injuries are treated in U.S. emergency rooms each year.” Eye injuries are the leading cause of blindness in children in the United States, and most eye injuries among school-age children are sports related according to the National Eye Institute, part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). By collectively encouraging the use of ASTM rated sport frames, goggles, and helmets with faceguards, we can substantially reduce the risk of severe eye injuries among young athletes.
Together, we can advocate for and educate parents, coaches, and athletes about the necessity of protective eyewear for various sports, such as basketball, soccer, swimming, and even non-contact sports like tennis or golf. By prescribing and fitting the appropriate sports eyewear, we can ensure that young athletes have optimal vision, comfort, and safety on the field or court.
Education and Awareness
We know that as eye care professionals, you are already deeply committed to raising awareness about the importance of eye health in youth sports. By sharing information and resources with parents, coaches, and athletes, you can increase understanding and encourage proactive measures to protect young athletes’ vision.
Consider offering seminars, workshops, or informational materials to local sports clubs and schools to increase awareness of eye safety in sports. By providing practical tips and information on eye protection, the benefits of regular eye exams, and the potential risks associated with specific sports, we can help create a safer environment for young athletes.
Shop the Full Collection of Prescription Safety Frames
As we observe Youth Sports Safety Month, let’s reinforce our collective commitment to prioritizing eye health in young athletes. By promoting the use of protective eyewear, regular eye exams, and education, we can help reduce the risk of sports-related eye injuries and ensure a brighter future for the next generation of athletes. At Hilco Vision, we are dedicated to supporting eye care professionals in this mission, providing the products and resources necessary to protect and enhance the vision of young athletes.
