Sun-sational Summer!

Break out the swimsuits, lace up those hiking boots, get outside and have some fun! Canadian summer is in full swing and there are endless ways to enjoy fresh air and fabulous summer weather.

Sunshine plays a vital role in good health; however we all know too much sun can have the opposite effect. Most likely, you already protect your skin from excessive UV radiation by seeking out shade, wearing hats and using sunscreen. But did you know it’s equally important to protect your eyes? The sun’s UV radiation can damage the eye's tissues, including the lens and cornea.

How many types of UV Radiation are there?
Sunlight consists of ultraviolet, visible and infrared rays. UV (ultraviolet) radiation has three components: UVA, UVB and UVC. Prolonged exposure to UVC rays is fatal, but these dangerous rays are absorbed by the ozone layer. UVB rays only penetrate our very top layer of skin. While dangerous in excess, UVB rays are essential for the body to make vitamin D from sunlight. UVA rays penetrate the second layer of skin and cause what is known as “the aging effect” as they crack the skin’s collagen. Scientific research has shown that years of exposure to UV radiation may increase the chance of developing a cataract, damage the retina(the lining of the eye responsible for sight), and increase the risk of skin cancer around the eyelids.

The good news is, protecting your eyes is easy, and fashionable too, with today’s array of sunglasses and transition lenses. And don’t forget eye protection for children and teenagers, who usually spend lots more time than adults in the sun! Blue Advantage offers a wide range of eyewear providers to keep you and your budget looking good.

Things to look for in sunglasses
Choosing sunglasses? First consider where you will be using them. Are you skiing or snowboarding? Try sporting some sports goggles. Spending lots of time in bright sunlight? Wrap your eyes in wrap-around frames. Wearing contacts with UV protection? You’ll still need sunglasses because protective contacts only cover a small part of the eye.

Finally, seek out sunglasses that:
  • Block out 99 to 100 percent of UVA and UVB radiation
  • Screen out 75 to 90 percent of visible light
  • Are matched in color
  • Are free of distortion and imperfection
  • Have grey lenses for proper color recognition
Visit blueadvantage.ca to find a participating eyewear provider near you.
What is Blue Advantage?

The Blue Advantage program allows Blue Cross members to save on medical, vision care and many other products and services offered by participating providers across Canada. The program is unique because it provides discounts at point of sale on the total cost of products and services from participating providers across Canada, regardless of whether the item is covered under your benefit plan. Simply present your Blue Cross identification card to the participating provider and mention the Blue Advantage program.

Blue Advantage is just one more way Blue Cross is working in your community to offer members access to affordable, quality services and products that can help them make healthy lifestyle choices. We encourage you to visit blueadvantage.ca regularly to learn where you might find health care savings may be available in your area.

Don't keep it a secret!

You've read about it and you may have already benefited from it. You know Blue Advantage can help you save money. That's why you've signed up for this newsletter. So if you know someone else with Blue Cross coverage, why not spread the word? There's no reason to keep it a secret. There are plenty of savings to go around!