Letter: Limit exposure to ‘blue’ light
Phil Schiller touts the features and size of the iPad Pro. Credit: Apple
Your stories on the use of laptops, iPads and other technology hitting the schools were enlightening [“Schools’ high-tech transformation,” News, Aug. 28]. Without technology, we cannot move forward. Nobody debates that.
However, there was no discussion of the potential damage to young children. Laptop and iPad screens emit high-energy visible (HEV) light, which many studies show may cause both ocular disease and other medical issues. The sun and large-screen TVs also emit HEV light.
HEV light, or light in the blue spectrum, is a hot topic among scientists and eye care professionals. HEV light could cause macular degeneration with long-term exposure. It may also cause sleep disorders, obesity, diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol and cancer. Exposure is also related to attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.
There are lenses that protect the eyes from HEV light. In the short term, reducing the amount of HEV light entering the eyes can only provide a positive impact on students.
Joel Kestenbaum, Plainview
Editor’s note: The writer is an optometrist.
