In a new study issued by The Vision Council, San Juan emerged as the North American city with the highest risk of radiation and harmful sun rays with 348 days each year. In studying 50 cities throughout North America, the Sun Protection Survey as administered by the Vision Council of America polled over 10,000 adults while evaluating for ozone concentration, climatic conditions, elevation, cloudiness, season and solar radiation strength.

Rounding out the top ten are Honolulu, Hawaii; Miami, Florida; Tampa Bay, Florida; Mobile, Alabama; New Orleans, Louisiana; Jacksonville, Florida; Houston, Texas; Los Angeles, California; and Phoenix, Arizona. Raleigh, North Carolina (96 days) and Norfolk, Virginia (91 days) finished 24th and 25th, respectively.

Based in Alexandria, Virginia, the Vision Council of America is a leading trade association for suppliers and manufacturers of the optical industry. The Vision Council of America has encouraged people to protect their eyes by purchasing sunglasses, with frames and lenses designed for specific lifestyles and activities. Many sunglasses have labels that indicate UVB and UVA protection.

Since 2010, The Vision Council of America has measured the public’s awareness of UV exposure and their knowledge of its impact on unprotected eyes. According to the organization’s CEO Ed Greene, there are still significant gaps between awareness and the regular use of sunglasses. The organization’s goal is to encourage individuals to make smart decisions so that their vision remains intact for a long time to come.

Prolonged exposure to sunlight can result in serious, long-term health problems including macular degeneration, cataracts, pterygium, photokeratitis, as well as cancer of the skin, eye or eyelid.

During early morning and late afternoon hours, the eyes receive double the amount of UV than during midday hours. According to The Vision Council, the most viable solution to maintaining proper vision is to rely on UV protective eyewear regardless of the activity, location or season.