Health authorities and eye care organisations in Italy have renewed their seasonal campaign promoting eye health, highlighting the importance of preventive measures during the summer and offering free ophthalmic screenings to members of the public. The initiative aims to raise awareness of common environmental factors that can affect vision while encouraging early detection of eye diseases through routine examinations.
As part of the campaign, the Italian Union of the Blind and Visually Impaired (UICI), in collaboration with the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB Italia ETS), is providing complimentary eye assessments at selected locations, including the city of Messina in Sicily.
Prevention remains central to protecting vision
According to ophthalmology experts involved in the campaign, many eye problems associated with summer conditions can be minimised through simple preventive measures.
Exposure to intense ultraviolet (UV) radiation, wind, sand and dehydration may contribute to eye irritation and, over time, increase the risk of ocular damage. Specialists therefore recommend wearing certified sunglasses that provide adequate UV protection, particularly during periods of strong sunlight.
Maintaining proper hydration and limiting outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day are also advised, as these measures may help reduce discomfort and support overall eye health.
Regular eye examinations support early diagnosis
The campaign places particular emphasis on preventive eye examinations, even in people without noticeable visual symptoms. Routine ophthalmic assessments can identify conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic eye disease and age-related macular degeneration before significant vision loss occurs.
Early diagnosis is widely recognised as one of the most effective strategies for preserving vision, allowing appropriate treatment to begin before irreversible damage develops.
Free screening initiatives also aim to improve access to eye care for individuals who may not otherwise undergo regular examinations.
Safe contact lens practices highlighted
Eye care professionals are also reminding contact lens users to follow strict hygiene recommendations during the summer season.
Contact lenses should only come into contact with sterile cleaning solutions and should never be rinsed or stored in tap water, seawater, lake water or swimming pool water. These sources can contain microorganisms capable of causing serious eye infections, including microbial keratitis, a potentially sight-threatening condition.
Maintaining appropriate lens hygiene and following manufacturers' guidance remain essential components of safe contact lens wear.
Nutrition and lifestyle contribute to ocular wellbeing
The campaign also reinforces the importance of healthy lifestyle habits that support long-term vision.
A balanced diet rich in fresh fruit and vegetables provides antioxidants, vitamins and carotenoids that have been associated with maintaining retinal health. Scientific evidence has linked nutrients such as vitamins C and E, lutein, zeaxanthin and omega-3 fatty acids with eye health, particularly in relation to age-related ocular diseases.
Regular physical activity is encouraged, although experts recommend exercising outside peak heat periods during the summer.
Special precautions for observing solar events
As part of this year's public awareness initiative, organisers have also reminded the public about the importance of safe solar observation during upcoming astronomical events.
Ophthalmologists warn that looking directly at the sun without appropriate protection can result in permanent retinal injury, known as solar retinopathy. Certified eclipse glasses meeting the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard are the only recommended method for direct observation of a solar eclipse.
The organisers emphasise that preventive education, together with regular eye examinations, remains one of the most effective approaches to reducing avoidable visual impairment and preserving eye health throughout life.