The Impact of Earplugs and Eye Masks on Sleep Quality in Surgical ICU Patients at Risk for Frequent Awakenings.

OBJECTIVES: Sleep disturbances may contribute to the development of delirium, prolonged ICU stay, and increased mortality. There is conflicting data on the effectiveness of earplugs and eye masks for sleep promotion in the ICU. This study evaluates the impact of earplugs and eye masks on sleep quality in postoperative surgical ICU patients at risk for frequent awakenings. DESIGN: Prospective randomized controlled trial. SETTING: Surgical ICU within the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. PATIENTS: Adult, female patients admitted to the surgical ICU requiring hourly postoperative assessments following breast free flap surgery between February 2018 and October 2019. INTERVENTIONS: Patients were randomized into an intervention group or a control group. The intervention group received earplugs and eye masks in addition to standard postoperative care, whereas the control group received standard postoperative care. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: The primary outcome was overall sleep quality assessed via the Richards-Campbell Sleep Questionnaire. Secondary outcomes of patient satisfaction and rates of ICU delirium were assessed with a modified version of the Family Satisfaction in the ICU survey and the Confusion Assessment Method for the ICU. After a planned interim analysis, the study was stopped early because prespecified criteria for significance were attained. Compared with the control group's average Richards-Campbell Sleep Questionnaire total score of 47.3 (95% CI, 40.8-53.8), the intervention group's average Richards-Campbell Sleep Questionnaire total score was significantly higher at 64.5 (95% CI, 58.3-70.7; p = 0.0007). There were no significant between-group differences for Confusion Assessment Method for the ICU scores or modified Family Satisfaction in the ICU survey scores. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that earplugs and eye masks are effective in improving sleep quality in ICU patients undergoing frequent assessments. The results strengthen the evidence for nonpharmacologic sleep-promoting adjuncts in the ICU.

COVID-19 Pandemic: Survey of future use of personal protective equipment in optometric practice.

PURPOSE: The aim of this project was to evaluate which personal protective equipment (PPE) eye care practitioners (ECP) will use during the next months and also what they will ask the patient to use in clinical practice. METHODS: A social-media survey was carried out, asking 257 optometrists and opticians in Germany, Austria and Switzerland (i) which PPE they intended to use in the future (after lockdown and before herd immunity and / or vaccine availability) and (ii) what they would ask the patient to do in terms of this. RESULTS: 75 % of the ECPs planned on wearing masks during refractions and 69 % when fitting contact lens. 62 % of the ECPs also expected their patients to wear masks in these tasks. This number is higher than for distance tasks such as fitting frames. Around 90 % of the ECPs would, in addition to hand washing, disinfect their hands and around 80 % expected their patients to do so too. Less than one third of ECPs favoured wearing safety spectacles, gloves and / or protective facial shields. 73 % planed on disinfecting frames after they would have been tried on by customers. CONCLUSIONS: In summary, most ECPs planed on continuing to use higher standards of PPE. Those, who intended to wear masks themselves, would ask their patients to also do so, combined with hand disinfection.

Blue-blocking glasses as additive treatment for mania: Effects on actigraphy-derived sleep parameters.

Improvement of sleep is a central treatment goal for patients in a manic state. Blue-blocking (BB) glasses as adjunctive treatment hasten overall recovery from mania. This method is an evolvement from dark therapy and builds on the discovery of the blue-light-sensitive retinal ganglion cell that signals daytime to the brain. We report effects of adjunctive BB glasses on actigraphy-derived sleep parameters for manic inpatients as compared to placebo. Hospitalized patients with bipolar disorder in a manic state aged 18-70 years were recruited from five clinics in Norway from February 2012 to February 2015. The participants were randomly allocated to wearing BB glasses or placebo (clear glasses) as an adjunctive treatment from 18:00 to 08:00 hours for seven consecutive nights. Sleep and wake were monitored by actigraphy. From 32 eligible patients, 10 patients in each group qualified for the group analyses. The BB group's mean sleep efficiency was significantly higher at night 5 as compared to the placebo group (92.6% vs. 83.1%, p = .027). The 95% confidence interval (CI) was 89.4%-95.8% in the BB group and 75.9%-90.3% in the placebo group. There were fewer nights of interrupted sleep in the BB group: 29.6% versus 43.8% in the placebo group. The BB group received less-intensive sleep-promoting pharmacological treatment and showed significantly higher sleep efficiency and more consolidated sleep as compared to the placebo group. Our findings suggest sleep-promoting effects through deactivating mechanisms. Adjunctive BB glasses seem to be useful for improving sleep for manic patients in the hospital setting.

Ocular morbidity and utilisation of protective eyewear among carpenters in Mushin local government, Lagos, Nigeria.

CONTEXT: Proper use of protective eyewear (PEW) is important in the prevention of occupational eye injury. AIM: The aim of this study was to determine the ocular morbidity and utilisation of PEW among carpenters in Mushin Local Government, Lagos, with a view to promoting ocular health and safety in the workplace. SUBJECT AND METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study of one hundred and fourteen (114) carpenters that were enrolled into the study. Interviewer-administered questionnaires were used to collect information on socio-demographics, work-related ocular history, awareness and utilisation of, as well as barriers to utilisation of PEW. Ophthalmic examination was done. In-depth interviews were also carried out to probe the barriers to utilisation of PEW. Quantitative responses were analysed using the IBM SPSS software, and content data analysis was performed for qualitative responses. RESULTS: The prevalence of reported work-related eye injury and complaints were 30.7% and 32.5%, respectively. The prevalence of ocular morbidity among the respondents was 74.6%. Seventy-seven respondents (67.5%) were aware of PEW; only 21.1% owned PEW, whereas the utilisation level was 26.3%. In-depth interviews revealed ignorance, forgetfulness, and unfamiliarity as the key barriers to PEW use. The odds of using PEW were about three-fold with previous eye injury at work and history of eye complaint. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates a significant prevalence of ocular morbidity and poor utilisation of PEW among carpenters in Mushin, Lagos. There was a significant relationship between previous eye injury or complaint and PEW use. Thus, there is a need to create awareness among carpenters and develop occupational safety policies to improve the use of PEW.

Prevalence of Lens Opacity in Interventional Cardiologists and Professional Working in the Hemodynamics in Brazil / Prevalência de Opacidades do Cristalino em Cardiologistas Intervencionistas e Profissionais Atuantes na Área de Hemodinâmica no Brasil

Abstract Background: Posterior subcapsular cataract is a tissue reaction commonly found among professionals exposed to ionizing radiation. Objective: To assess the prevalence of cataract in professionals working in hemodynamics in Brazil. Methods: Professionals exposed to ionizing radiation (group 1, G1) underwent slit lamp examination with a biomicroscope for lens examination and compared with non-exposed subjects (group 2, G2). Ophthalmologic findings were described and classified by opacity degree and localization using the Lens Opacities Classification System III. Both groups answered a questionnaire on work and health conditions to investigate the presence of risk factors for cataract. The level of significance was set at 5% (p < 0.05). Results: A total of 112 volunteers of G1, mean age of 44.95 (±10.23) years, and 88 volunteers of G2, mean age of 48.07 (±12.18) years were evaluated; 75.2% of G1 and 85.2% of G2 were physicians. Statistical analysis between G1 and G2 showed a prevalence of posterior subcapsular cataract of 13% and 2% in G1 and G2, respectively (0.0081). Considering physicians only, 38% of G1 and 15% of G2 had cataract, with the prevalence of posterior subcapsular cataract of 13% and 3%, respectively (p = 0.0176). Among non-physicians, no difference was found in the prevalence of cataract (by types). Conclusions: Cataract was more prevalent in professionals exposed to ionizing radiation, with posterior subcapsular cataract the most frequent finding.

Resumo Fundamento: A catarata subcapsular posterior é uma reação tecidual encontrada com frequência nos profissionais expostos à radiação ionizante. Objetivo: Avaliar a prevalência de catarata nos profissionais que atuam na área de hemodinâmica no Brasil. Métodos: Profissionais expostos à radiação ionizante (grupo 1, G1) foram submetidos ao exame biomicroscópico com lâmpada de fenda para avaliação do cristalino, e comparados aos não expostos (grupo 2, G2). Os achados foram descritos e classificados quanto ao grau de opacidade e localização por meio do Lens opacities classification system III. Ambos os grupos responderam questionário sobre condições de trabalho e de saúde para afastar fatores de risco para catarata, e foram comparados quanto aos achados. Foi utilizado um nível de significância de 5% (p < 0,05). Resultados: Foram avaliados 112 voluntários (G1) com média de idade 44,95 (±10,23) anos e 88 voluntários (G2) com média de 48,07 (±12,18) anos. Desses, 75,2% (G1) e 85,2% (G2) eram médicos. A análise estatística entre os grupos G1 e G2 mostrou uma prevalência da catarata no grupo G1 de 33% comparada ao G2 de 16% (p = 0,0058), sendo a catarata subcapsular posterior presente em 13% no G1 e 2% no G2 (p = 0,0081). Considerando apenas os médicos, 38% no G1 e 15% no G2 (p = 0,0011) apresentaram catarata, sendo a subcapsular posterior 13% e 3% (p = 0,0176), respectivamente. No grupo dos profissionais não médicos, não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa na prevalência dos achados oftalmológicos. Conclusões: A catarata esteve mais presente no grupo de profissionais expostos à radiação ionizante, sendo que a catarata subcapsular posterior foi o dano tecidual mais encontrado.

Use of Protective Eyewear During Recreational Activities in Adults of the United States: Analysis from the 2016 National Health Interview Survey.

PURPOSE: Eye injuries occur frequently in the United States resulting in vision loss. Protective eyewear (PE) is a simple, effective way to prevent these injuries. The study aims to evaluate characteristics associated with no PE usage in hopes to better understand factors that may be targeted to alleviate future injuries. METHODS: Individuals from the 2016 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) who performed recreational activities that could cause eye injury were divided into two groups - those with and without PE usage during these activities - and compared on several variables consisting of age group, gender, race, family income, ability to afford eyeglasses, employment, wearing of corrective lenses, and visitation with general and eye care providers. Statistical analyses were performed with SAS controlling for the complex same design via chi-square tests and logistic regression. RESULTS: From a total of 8,199 subjects, those who are female, Asian, black, Hispanic, ages 18-24 years old, have a family income <$35,000, unemployed, not wearers of corrective lenses, and have not seen a general or eye care provider showed increased no PE usage according to chi-square analysis. With multivariate analysis, only race, gender, age, and wearing of corrective lenses correlated to PE usage. CONCLUSIONS: Comparing 2002 and 2016 NHIS, PE usage had increased from 34.7% to 65.1%. Individuals who were younger, female, of a minority race, or who did not wear corrective lenses had increased odds of not using PE during recreational activities. Prevention should target these associated groups in efforts to reduce recreational eye injuries.

Prevalence of Lens Opacity in Interventional Cardiologists and Professional Working in the Hemodynamics in Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Posterior subcapsular cataract is a tissue reaction commonly found among professionals exposed to ionizing radiation. OBJECTIVE: To assess the prevalence of cataract in professionals working in hemodynamics in Brazil. METHODS: Professionals exposed to ionizing radiation (group 1, G1) underwent slit lamp examination with a biomicroscope for lens examination and compared with non-exposed subjects (group 2, G2). Ophthalmologic findings were described and classified by opacity degree and localization using the Lens Opacities Classification System III. Both groups answered a questionnaire on work and health conditions to investigate the presence of risk factors for cataract. The level of significance was set at 5% (p < 0.05). RESULTS: A total of 112 volunteers of G1, mean age of 44.95 (±10.23) years, and 88 volunteers of G2, mean age of 48.07 (±12.18) years were evaluated; 75.2% of G1 and 85.2% of G2 were physicians. Statistical analysis between G1 and G2 showed a prevalence of posterior subcapsular cataract of 13% and 2% in G1 and G2, respectively (0.0081). Considering physicians only, 38% of G1 and 15% of G2 had cataract, with the prevalence of posterior subcapsular cataract of 13% and 3%, respectively (p = 0.0176). Among non-physicians, no difference was found in the prevalence of cataract (by types). CONCLUSIONS: Cataract was more prevalent in professionals exposed to ionizing radiation, with posterior subcapsular cataract the most frequent finding.

HOW TO ESTABLISH AN ADEQUATE SYSTEM FOR EYE LENS DOSE MONITORING: A PROPOSAL FOR TYPICAL WORKPLACES.

For years, the dose limit of 150 mSv for occupational exposure of the lens of the eye to ionising radiation was rarely exceeded, and the dose to the eye was only monitored occasionally. With the national implementation of the European Basic Safety Standards in 2018, this dose limit was reduced to 20 mSv and the Member States are expected to implement an adequate system for the monitoring of category A workers. Where the system for monitoring the whole body dose is settled in most countries, this is not the situation for the lens of the eye. This article presents a system for eye lens dose monitoring, based on the particle type, energy, angle of incidence and geometry of the radiation field and the use of protective measures. The system provides recommendations for the adequate operational quantity and dosemeter position for some of the most relevant workplaces.

EYE LENS DOSES OF RADIOLOGY TECHNOLOGISTS WHO ASSIST PATIENTS DURING RADIOGRAPHY.

The International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) revised a drastic decrease of the annual eye equivalent dose limit. The present study aimed to evaluate the amounts of radiation to which the eye lenses of radiological technologists (RT) become exposed and the effects of wearing lead glasses on dose reduction while assisting patients during radiographic assessments. Lens equivalent doses (Hp(3)) were measured at the neck using personal dosemeter. In addition, Hp(3) was estimated by converting air kerma determined using small optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dosemeters at six positions on lead glasses near the eyes and at the neck. The estimated mean Hp(3) from personal dosemeter at the neck varied from 3.92 to 18.6 mSv/y. Compare to OSL for which the dose varies from 8.95 to 54.75 mSv/y, personal dosimeter underestimate Hp(3).Therefore, Hp(3) for RT might exceed the revised eye equivalent dose limit 20 mSv/y recommended by the ICRP.

Ballistic Eye Protection: Why Are Soldiers Reluctant to Use Them?

INTRODUCTION: The Israel Defense Forces (IDF), as well as many other armies, faces major challenges in balancing the need to protect soldiers from harm while not impeding their ability to fight. Eye protections available in the IDF are underused, for reasons that are as yet unclear. In this study, we aim to gain a better understanding of the influence of eye protection currently in use in the IDF on vision. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, subjects were assessed for best corrected visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, and binocular visual fields (Goldmann) in a crossover design (with and without eye protection). In addition, we established a comprehensive review on the subjective faults of the eye protection, both from personal experiences of soldiers who used them during their military service and from civilian volunteers who used them in a sterile laboratory setting. RESULTS: Visual acuity, contrast sensitivity and visual fields with and without the eye protection were assessed in 25 subjects. Eye protection did not cause any statistically significant change in visual acuity. However, the eye protection caused a statistically significant decrease in visual fields in all quadrants and in both isopters used. CONCLUSIONS: Significant restriction of the visual field can pose a major challenge for soldiers on the battlefield. The use of eye protection with wider lenses or no frame should be considered. Education and instruction should focus on increasing awareness among commanders and soldiers of the benefits of eye protection and fostering trust in the technology's capabilities. In parallel, it is crucial to educate soldiers about its disadvantages, and how such disadvantages can be overcome. We stipulate the findings to the standard IDF goggle and might not apply to other designs.

Behaviors of active sunbeds users and their knowledge on the potential health risks; results of cross-sectional study in Poland.

BACKGROUND: Current literature review indicates that there is an increase in risk of skin melanoma due to the use of sunbeds. AIMS: To assess behaviors and opinions about health risk related to tanning. METHODS: From March 2012 to June of the same year, nonrepresentative cross-sectional study was conducted online concerning knowledge and behaviors during tanning. Data from 4919 people (80% of women, median age 25 years [IQR: 20-36]) were analyzed statistically with R software (level of significance at α = .05). We used the authors "active users of sunbeds" (AUS) criterion, denoting person using it ≥2 times per year with an average sessions lasting ≥5 minutes (cutoff values above 1 quartile). The reference was those not meeting above criteria. RESULTS: A total of 926 persons (18.8%) stated that they use sunbeds, while 680 (13.8%) met the criterion of AUS. Within the AUS group, the median number of visits in the tanning beds rooms was 10 (IQR: 5-15) per year, with single session lasting 9 (IQR: 7-10) minutes. The majority (83.5%) of AUS tanned naked indoors, with only 47.4% to have used safety glasses. These individuals were significantly more likely to be women, better educated, and were considered outdoor tanners. AUS were less aware of the risks associated with sunburns, with equal use of sunscreen and reapplication more frequently (as non-AUS). CONCLUSIONS: The level of knowledge in the field of prevention of melanoma was similar in both groups; however, AUS group more frequently took risky behaviors related to sun exposure.

Ocular Injuries and Cultural Influences in Afghanistan During 5 Months of Operation Enduring Freedom.

In support of Operation Enduring Freedom, American, North American Treaty Organization (NATO) Coalition, and Afghan forces worked together in training exercises and counterinsurgency operations. While serving at the NATO Role 3 Multinational Medical Unit, Kandahar, Afghanistan, numerous patients with explosive blast injuries (Coalition and Afghan security forces, and insurgents) were treated. A disparity was noted between the ocular injury patterns of US and Coalition forces in comparison with their Afghan counterparts, which were overwhelmingly influenced by the use, or lack thereof, of eye protection. Computed tomography imaging coupled, with a correlative clinical examination, demonstrated the spectrum of ocular injuries that can result from an explosive blast. Patient examination was performed by Navy radiologists and an ophthalmologist. A cultural analysis by was performed to understand why eye protection was not used, even if available to Afghan forces, by the injured patients in hope of bridging the gap between Afghan cultural differences and proper operational risk management of combat forces.

Eye Protection: Survey of Dermatologists and Office Staff.

BACKGROUND: Splash injuries to mucosal membranes during procedures have been well documented in dermatology and carry a potential risk of blood-borne virus transmission. The risk to the ocular mucosa can be minimized with proper eye protection. OBJECTIVE: To examine the prevalence of wearing eye protection during dermatologic procedures by physicians, trainees, and office staff in dermatology. METHODS: A Cross-sectional observational study of US dermatologists, residents, nurses, and medical assistants was performed regarding eye protection during dermatologic procedures. RESULTS: The rates of wearing eye protection in every dermatologic procedure are as follows: dermatologists 42.3%, residents/fellows 39.6%, and nurses/medical assistants 25%. Ninety-eight percent of respondents thought blood-borne illnesses could be transmitted by splash injury. The rates of having splash injury during your career are as follows: dermatologists 73.1%, residents/fellows 16.7%, and nurses/medical assistants 50%. The rates of having a splash injury within the last year are as follows: dermatologists 11.5%, residents/fellows 8.3%, and nurses/medical assistants 35.7%. CONCLUSION: The use of eye protection is an important component of the personal protective equipment to help prevent transmission of blood-borne illnesses. Dermatologists and staff should strive to increase awareness and the use of face masks with eye shields or face mask with separate eye protection in every dermatologic procedure.

EVALUATION OF OCCUPATIONAL RADIATION DOSE IN TRANSCATHETER AORTIC VALVE IMPLANTATION.

Occupational doses during fluoroscopy in interventional procedures vary largely (Kim et al. (Occupational radiation doses to operators performing cardiac catheterization procedures. Health Phys. 2008;94:211-227)). In transcatheter aortic valve implantation, the operators' positions and use of radiation shielding are particularly related to the entry choice on the patient's heart. This study evaluates how occupational doses depend on operator positioning during transfemoral and transaortal access. Occupational dosimetric readings were collected with electronic dosemeters on two cardiothoracic surgeons and one cardiologist during 31 procedures. The findings were significantly higher body doses and eye lens doses to the surgeons during transaortal access compared to transfemoral access. The median equivalent eye lens dose per procedure received by the cardiologists was 0.05-0.06 mSv; hence, the cardiologists should wear protective eye wear to prevent reaching the proposed annual dose limit of 20 mSv to the eye lens. Surgeons ought to use protective eye wear as well, and should only perform a restricted number of transcatheter aortic valve implantations with transaortal access annually.

The prevalence of occupational health-related problems in dentistry: A review of the literature.

The study was conducted to report on the scope and prevalence of occupational health related-problems experienced by dentists, dental therapists, and oral hygienists in their practice of dentistry. BACKGROUND: Professional practice and dental training have many risk factors, and the dental team should be able to recognize these factors to protect themselves. The prevalence of conditions related to the musculoskeletal system, stress, percutaneous injuries, ears, and eyes are of concern. The dental team should also not forget hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV as risks in practice. Dental practitioners should protect themselves by self-recognizing risk factors and by maintaining proper working conditions. METHODS: The study targeted all empirical research, case studies, and systematic literature reviews written in English. All articles selected were subjected to a data analysis process. Data were captured on an Excel spreadsheet and reported in a comprehensive table. RESULTS: The literature addressing occupational health among dental practitioners included mainly cross-sectional studies and review papers (2001-2016). Forty-nine studies were included in the review. Musculoskeletal disorders remain the most researched occupational health-related problems in dentistry. Eye protection compliance was low among practitioners. Percutaneous injuries especially among young dentists and students were still a concern. CONCLUSION: Occupational health-related problems are still prevalent in current dentistry practice, despite changes in equipment and surgery design. The reported prevalence of occupational related-health problems and other findings of investigative studies highlight the need for continuous professional education and a need to improve clinical practice aspects of dentistry curricula.

Retinal Detachment Associated With Basketball-Related Eye Trauma.

PURPOSE: Basketball is a popular sport involving significant body contact, which may frequently result in ocular trauma. The aim of this study was to evaluate the characteristics and visual outcomes of retinal detachment associated with basketball-related injury. DESIGN: Retrospective, interventional case series. METHODS: We reviewed the course of patients who sustained traumatic retinal detachment from basketball-related ocular trauma between 2003 and 2015. RESULTS: Thirteen patients were evaluated for basketball-related traumatic retinal detachment. Twelve (92%) were male and 1 (8%) female, with an average age of 18.2 years. The majority (9 of 13, 70%) of patients had moderate-to-high myopia, and none were using protective eyewear when they sustained the eye trauma. Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment was observed in all eyes. The preoperative mean visual acuity was 20/625 (range, hand motions to 20/20). Initial surgery using scleral buckling alone was performed in most (8 of 13, 62%) of the patients. Retinal reattachment was achieved in 10 (76%) eyes after the first operation and in 12 (92%) at the end of the intervention. The mean follow-up was 3.9 years (range, 4 months to 12 years). The visual acuity during last follow-up was 20/231 (range, light perception to 20/20). In the multivariable analysis, initial visual acuity was an independent factor affecting the final visual outcome (P = .006). CONCLUSION: Retinal detachment associated with basketball-related injury may cause severe visual loss. In the current study, all retinal detachments were of rhegmatogenous type and commonly occurred in young individuals with myopia. Initial visual acuity was associated with the prognosis. Risk awareness for early detection and intervention are important in these traumas.

New organ-based tube current modulation method to reduce the radiation dose during computed tomography of the head: evaluation of image quality and radiation dose to the eyes in the phantom study.

A new organ-based tube current modulation (NOB-TCM) method was designed with the intent to decrease tube current by 30% over a prescribed 90° radial arc across the anterior aspect of the radiosensitive organ, without increasing tube current in the remaining radial arc. We compared a reference scan and five other dose-reducing methods with regard to effects on dose, practicality, and image quality to determine the most effective method for the reduction of the radiation dose to the eyes during CT examinations of the head. We compared the radiation doses to the eyes and physical image quality in different regions of interest for TCM and shielding scans. Three types of TCM scans were performed: longitudinal TCM, angular TCM, and NOB-TCM. A bismuth sheet and lead goggles were each applied for the shielding scan. Relative to the reference scan, the dose to the eye was reduced to 25.88% with NOB-TCM, 44.53% with lead goggles, and 36.91% with a bismuth shield. Relative to the reference scan, the mean signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) was decreased to 8.02% with NOB-TCM, 28.36% with lead goggles, and 32.95% with the bismuth shield. The SNR of the anterior region of interest was decreased to 11.89% with NOB-TCM and 87.89% with the bismuth shield. The average figure of merit was increased by 11.7% with longitudinal TCM and 13.39% with NOB-TCM, compared with the reference scan. NOB-TCM is a superior solution for head CT, including the orbital area, due to the reduction in radiation exposure without significant loss in image quality.

Attitudes and Behaviors Related to Sun-Safety in College Students.

The purpose of this study was to determine the level of sun safe behaviors, as well as to measure knowledge and attitudes toward being tan in a sample of college students. The sample was comprised of 315 college students attending a personal health course. During Fall of 2016, a survey was distributed to assess knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of university students regarding skin cancer related behaviors. Students with a friend or family member with skin cancer more often reported thinking that they were at risk for developing skin cancer (48.6 vs. 21.2%, p < 0.001). Despite this opinion, they more often sunbathed (p = 0.008) and had a sunburn (p < 0.001) in the past year. Being in a health-related major did not significantly impact attitudes or behaviors. Future studies can focus further on raising awareness about skin cancer, specifically in college aged populations.

Knocked by the shuttlecock: twelve sight-threatening blunt-eye injuries in Australian badminton players.

BACKGROUND: Non-penetrating ocular injuries from badminton shuttlecocks can result in severe damage and life-long complications. This case series highlights the morbidity of such injuries, particularly in regard to post-traumatic glaucoma. METHODS: This is a retrospective case series of 12 patients with shuttlecock-related blunt eye injuries sustained during badminton play without eye protection. By approaching colleagues through conference presentations and networking, the authors have attempted to gather all known cases of shuttlecock ocular injury managed in tertiary ocular emergency departments or private ophthalmological clinics in Victoria and New South Wales, Australia in 2015. RESULTS: This is the first multicentre case series to describe badminton-related ocular injuries in Australia. Our case series demonstrates, in particular, long-term glaucoma-related morbidity for patients over a large age range (16 to 77 years), with one patient requiring ongoing management 26 years following their initial injury. The cases reported further add to the literature promoting awareness of badminton-related ocular injury. CONCLUSIONS: We encourage player education and advocacy on badminton-related eye injuries and appropriate use of eye protection to reduce associated morbidity.