Are Divers at Greater Risk of Vision Damage? New Study Highlights a Hidden Threat

Could your time in the water be putting your eyesight at risk? A new commentary from Australian researchers Davinia Beaver and Carly Hudson has turned the spotlight on an often-overlooked health concern for surfers and scuba divers: prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) and blue light (BL) that may increase the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

While the dangers of UV exposure for outdoor workers and welders are well documented, those who spend long hours on or under the ocean’s surface—like divers and surfers—are rarely considered in eye health research. But as Beaver and Hudson point out, these athletes experience dual light exposure: intense UV light above the water, reflected by the ocean’s surface, and deep-penetrating blue light below, especially during long dives.

According to the researchers, this “two-pronged” exposure could contribute to cumulative eye damage over time, including conditions like cataracts and AMD. What makes this issue more concerning is that most dive masks and surf gear offer little to no protection against blue light.

While this article doesn’t dive into the science too deeply, the original research commentary in Eye journal offers a more technical breakdown and is a worthwhile read for anyone spending serious time in the water. The researchers call for better protective gear, more focused studies, and broader collaboration between the fields of eye care, marine sports, and environmental science.

 The takeaway? If you’re a diver or surfer, protecting your eyes might be just as important as protecting your skin. And it’s time the broader dive community paid attention.

 Read the full commentary:
Eye Journal – Dual light exposure and AMD risk in water sports