PINELLAS PARK, Fla.—A newly released study conducted by the 44-location New England Eye Institute and Transitions Optical indicates that nearly 80 percent of consumers report knowing that UV exposure can cause skin cancer, but only 5 percent are aware it can harm the eyes.

The survey found that 57 percent of respondents said they do not wear protective eyewear when in the sun for extended periods of time.

With those surveyed reporting that they spend approximately 3.5 hours each day outdoors, this represents an average of more than 1,000 hours of UV exposure per person each year, according to Transitions.