Eye Protection: Good Goal for Athletes by Dr. Howard Purcell (NAPSA)—Many Americans enhancetheir health by taking part in sports or athletic activities. Too many, however, strike out when it comesto protecting their eyes. Whetheryou’re a dedicated athlete or merely take part in weekend pickup games, there are steps you need to take to protect your h ae precious sense of Lada Children, espe- Dr. Howard Purcell! Cially, need guid- ance on the right protective eyewear. Parents and coaches may meet someresistance at first. Today’s eye protection, however, is lightweight and looks cool. It’s worth theeffort. Here’s why: Nearly 50,000 sports-related eye injuries are treated in emergency rooms annually 71 percent of those injured are under 25 41 percent are under 15 * Baseball and basketball are associated with the greatest number of eye injuries to children Kids play hard and run the risk of more injuries because they tend to be fearless. When properly fitted, protective eyewear can reduce the risk of significant eye injury by at least 90 percent. Athletes of all ages must be aware of the risk of eye injuries, and how simple measurescan prevent them. See your Eye Care Professional for a winning game plan to prevent eye injuries. * Howard B. Purcell, O.D., FA.A.O., is Director, Professional Affairs, Vistakon, Division of Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, Ine. pete eee ee OE eee Note to Editors: This is the 2nd in a series of 12.
