Ultraviolet & the eye

"Ultraviolet (UV) radiation comprises invisible high energy rays from the sun that lie just beyond the blue end of the visible spectrum.

More than 99% of UV radiation is absorbed by the anterior structures of the eye, although some of it does reach the light-sensitive retina (back of the eye). The UV radiation present in sunlight is not useful for vision. There are good scientific reasons to be concerned that UV absorption by the eye may contribute to age-related changes in the eye and a number of serious eye diseases.

Protection can be achieved by simple, safe and inexpensive methods such as wearing a brimmed hat and using eyewear that absorbs UV radiation (sunglasses, including prescription sunglasses/reactolite lenses)."