When it comes to taking care of your health, don’t “overlook” your eyes… literally. Temporary blindness caused by sudden exposure to bright light can’t be helped. But continued over-exposure to bright lights… especially sunlight… increases your risk of permanent damage including cancer.

Here’s what you need to know.

Eye disease starts to manifest during middle age (40 to 60). Even if you have no symptoms, getting a baseline eye examination at 40 can save your vision in later years. And you don’t have to wait until then. It’s not a bad idea to have your family’s eyes checked periodically as they grow.

In the meantime, practice good eye protection with broad-brimmed hats and sunglasses. Just don’t settle for bargain sunglasses. Look for glasses with 100% UV-blocking capability. These moves don’t guarantee cancer prevention but they do contribute to keeping eyes healthy.

And protect your children’s eyes early, starting as early as infancy. Help them develop good habits now that will benefit them for a lifetime.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology (www.aao.org/eye-health) lists numerous ways to keep your eyesight as healthy and keen as possible.