Why Sports Eye Safety Matters
April is Sports Eye Safety Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the risk of eye injuries in sports and the simple steps that can prevent them. Each year, an estimated 100,000 people in the U.S. suffer from sports-related eye injuries—and about 13,500 of those injuries result in permanent vision loss. These are not just statistics; they represent real individuals—teens playing pickup games after school, adults in recreational leagues, and children participating in organized youth sports.
The most important takeaway? The vast majority of these injuries are preventable. With the right protective eyewear, athletes can dramatically reduce their risk of serious and even permanent eye damage.
Risks Across Ages & Sports
Eye injuries can happen in a split second. In high-contact sports like basketball, football, and hockey, or even in sports involving fast-moving projectiles like baseball, tennis, and racquetball, the eyes are incredibly vulnerable. And it’s not just professional athletes at risk—children and teens are especially susceptible because many youth leagues don’t require protective eyewear. Adults, too, often underestimate the risk, especially in recreational settings where helmets and face guards are less likely to be worn.
At Mississippi Retina Associates, we’ve seen firsthand the impact that sports-related eye trauma can have on long-term vision. Some injuries can result in retinal tears or detachments, which, if left untreated, can lead to irreversible vision loss. That’s why early evaluation and treatment by a retina specialist is critical.
A Local Commitment to Eye Health
As a leading retinal specialty practice in Mississippi, we are committed to preserving the vision of athletes and active individuals of all ages. Whether it’s a young soccer player with a sudden eye injury or an adult tennis player experiencing blurred vision after a match, our team of board-certified ophthalmologists and retina specialists provides fast, expert care to evaluate, diagnose, and treat eye trauma.
This April, we join the American Academy of Ophthalmology in urging athletes, parents, and coaches to make eye safety a priority. Sports should be fun, competitive, and memorable—but never at the expense of your vision.
Prevention Is Powerful
Proper protective eyewear, made from impact-resistant materials like polycarbonate, can mean the difference between a temporary injury and permanent vision loss. Making vision safety part of every game—whether you’re practicing, competing, or playing for fun—is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your eyes.
If you or your child experiences an eye injury during sports, don’t wait. Seek immediate care from an ophthalmologist. At Mississippi Retina Associates, we are here to support your recovery and protect your sight with state-of-the-art diagnostics and personalized treatment plans.
Vision is essential to how we experience the world—don’t take it for granted on the field, court, or diamond.
