Beamers, an Australian sunglass brand developed to support children’s eye health, has been selected as a top health start-up to participate in the University of New South Wales (UNSW) Accelerator program.
Recognising the important eye health properties of these sunglasses, the company is also receiving support from The George Institute for Global Health, and has formed partnerships with Vision Australia and Glaucoma Australia.
Acknowledging the need for children to spend time outdoors to protect against myopia, a Beamers co-founder said, “All children’s sight is worth protecting. We understand the epidemic of myopia, but the silent epidemic of eye diseases caused by ultraviolet radiation (UVR) must not be ignored. Outdoor activity for up to 14 hours per week is important in reducing myopia, but it is the high lux component of outdoor light that is essential to protect against axial length progression, not UVR.”
UVR eye diseases include periorbital skin cancers, which account for up to 10% of all skin cancers, pterygium, pingueculae, and ocular surface tumours. UVR is also one factor in the pathogenesis of cataracts and macular degeneration.
All Beamers have unique Optoshield technology, which has been specifically designed to offer children best-in-class protection against UVR and glare. Protecting children’s eyes while they are young is essential – after all, 80% of a child’s UV damage has happened by the age of 18.
People can buy Beamers sunglasses from Glaucoma Australia, Vision Australian and leading optometrists. Profits raised from each sale will be donated to support the work of not for profit organisations.
