nvestigating How Blue Light Exposure Affects the Health of the Cornea

Background: As all of us become more and more dependent on digital devices, the concern about the sight damaging effects associated with blue light exposure has gained attention. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether high-energy visible spectrum particularly in the range 415-455 nm blue light damages the cornea, lens, and retina. Methods:Both in vitro and in vivo models were coupled with a human observational study. For in vitro models, human corneal epithelial cells, lens epithelial cells, as well as retinal pigment epithelial cells were exposed to various intensities of blue light. Adult Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to blue light for 30 days in vivo. Human subjects were also observed by recording eye strain as well as visual acuity both with and without blue light filtering glasses. Results: Increased oxidative stress, with higher exposure to blue light, led to significantly decreased cell viability from the in vitro study. In vivo studies reported corneal opacity and retinal thinning in some species, most commonly in the high intensities of blue light exposure. Human study results included reduced eye strain and preserved visual acuity from those wearing filters for protection compared with those without. Conclusion: The health risks of prolonged blue light exposure are of large concern, as well as the need for a more intensified research initiative and new ways to reduce its harmful impact on visual welfare in this age of technology.