Some experts are worried that increased screen time without protection from blue light is leading to a global epidemic of blindness. Blue light from digital devices can deteriorate the retinas over time, and tests on rats found that unfiltered tablets led to 23% more retinal cell death. While the damage from blue light exposure is irreversible, people can prevent further deterioration by taking precautions like using blue light filters and getting adequate breaks when looking at screens, especially for children who tend to hold devices closer to their eyes.

1. Global Blindness Epidemic
Concerns Eye-Care Experts
Dr. Michael Lange

2. Introduction
• Michael Lange, OD, the founder of Fortifeye Vitamins, has
been working as an optometrist in Florida for more than
two decades. At his company Blue Light Defense, Dr.
Michael Lange educates people about the need to protect
against blue-light damage.
Some experts worry that humans are facing a global
epidemic of blindness, due to the increasing number of
hours people spend looking at screens without protection.
The screens of modern digital devices are just one source
of blue light, a high-energy light that deteriorates the
retinas. In tests on rats, exposure to tablets without filters
resulted in up to 23 percent more retinal cell death.

3. Global Blindness Epidemic
• This deterioration is irreversible; however people
can prevent it by taking appropriate precautions.
Individuals between the ages of 8 and 18 spend
around seven hours a day looking at screens.
Because children have short arms and thus hold
devices close to their eyes, they experience a
higher rate of exposure to blue light than adults
do. Adults should therefore protect their children
(and themselves) by using digital filters and other
eye protection. Learn more at
www.bluelightdefense.com