ZEISS is announcing the launch of UVProtect Technology, the first time complete sunglass-level UV protection™ (UV400) will be available in the U.S. and Canadian consumer markets in all clear organic eyeglass lens materials, beginning April 9.

The introduction of ZEISS UVProtect Technology bridges a critical gap in UV protection in clear lenses – from the previous 380 nanometers in clear lenses to now complete UV400 protection. According to The Vision Council, this largely unknown gap in protection has accounted for four of five consumers being exposed to as much as 40 percent of the most harmful UV rays. This exposure is directly linked to photoaging, cancer, and cataracts – the leading cause of blindness.

A new consumer survey released by ZEISS in conjunction with the launch of UVProtect found consumers are significantly uninformed regarding the impact of UV on the eyes. Less than 10 percent of consumers are aware that cataracts are a direct side effect of overexposure to UV, and only 13 percent are aware that skin cancer around the eyes is a potential side effect.

“This is the first time that sunglass-level UV protection will be available in clear lenses, giving eyeglass wearers 100% UV400 protection for their eyes and eyelids,” said Bryan Rossi, General Manager of Carl Zeiss Vision Canada, Inc. “With this, ZEISS UVProtect Technology establishes a new standard of care in the eye care industry.  All ZEISS lenses come automatically with this UV protection.”

ZEISS will not patent the UVProtect Technology in the hope that other industry leaders will step up and raise the level of UV protection for all patients around the globe.

More information is available at www.zeiss.ca/UVProtect.

Click HERE for the full press release.