Protecting eyes from air pollution
Becky McCall looks at how the latest research has linked air pollution with eye health, and the advice to give patients on how to protect themselves.
Domains covered
Communication
Clinical practice
Economic output has plunged during the COVID-19 lockdown, but a positive outcome has been the attendant drop in outdoor air pollution. The results are startling: in the year between 26 March 2019 and 26 March 2020, levels of traffic-related pollutant nitrogen dioxide (NO2) more than halved in major UK cities (Khoo, 2020).
But ‘normal’ life will resume, businesses will reopen, and roads will once again be clogged with traffic. Consequently, levels of air pollution will rise and health will suffer – and eye health is no exception.
Not already a member of The College?
Start enjoying the benefits of College membership today. Take a look at what the College can offer you and view our membership categories and rates.
Related further reading
We believe that vaccine uptake will be maximised where staff are supported to make their own decisions, having been provided with clear, evidence-based information on the benefit and value of vaccinations.
Following the announcement by the Secretary for Health that the isolation period for people who test positive for COVID-19 will be cut to five full days in England, NHSE has confirmed this will apply in primary care settings.
UKHSA confirms that changes to the self-isolation period following Covid exposure applies to healthcare workers