What is a known risk factor for corneal arc eye?

Corneal arc eye, also known as arcus senilis, is characterized by a gray or white arc that appears around the corneal margin due to lipid deposits. A significant risk factor for developing corneal arc eye is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. UV light can lead to changes in the corneal epithelial cells and can contribute to the development of these deposits as the body attempts to protect the eyes from potential damage caused by UV radiation.

Chronic UV exposure is particularly prevalent in individuals who spend a lot of time outdoors without adequate eye protection, increasing their risk of developing various ocular conditions, including corneal arc eye. This connection underscores the importance of UV protective eyewear to safeguard eye health over time.

Knowing the significance of UV light as a risk factor helps in patient education and encourages preventive measures that can mitigate long-term eye damage.