List of All Articles with Tag 'listicle'

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Anyone with a cat will probably argue that their feline is the coolest—but there have been at least a few other candidates through the ages, from Able Seacat Simon to Abraham Lincoln’s kitties to the feline that inspired Nikola Tesla.

Our eyesight is often something we take for granted – until there’s something wrong with it. Problems like short-sightedness (myopia) are rapidly increasing. In fact, research has predicted that by 2050 there will be 4,758 million people with the condition – nearly half (49.8%) of the world’s population – as experts are highlighting ahead of National Eye Health Week (September 18-24) In addition, new research by Macushield found 73% of Brits notice their eyes deteriorating with age, and the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) World Report on Vision has predicted a dramatic increase in the need for eyecare in the near future, pointing out that at least 2.2 billion people globally have a vision impairment – and around half of these have vision impairment that could have been prevented. “Some people may not be giving their eye health the attention it deserves, occasionally missing out on annual eye tests, which play a crucial role in detecting conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration,” says ophthalmologist Dr Jørn Slot Jørgensen. “When identified and addressed in a timely manner, these issues can be managed effectively, helping safeguard our vision.” Jørgensen says the pandemic also played a role in worsening eye problems, particularly the increase in short-sightedness. “With the shift to remote work, people are now more likely to spend extended hours with their screens for work and leisure,” he says. “Prioritising eye health isn’t just a matter of convenience, it’s a fundamental aspect of our overall wellbeing.” Here Jørgensen, of the Laser Eye Clinic London, and Evelyn (Evie) Mensah, a consultant ophthalmologist and eye surgeon at Central Middlesex Hospital and member of The Royal College of Ophthalmologists council, outline seven ways people may be damaging their vision, without even realising… 1. Skipping eye tests Mensah says it’s advisable for people to have a sight test every two years, or more often if their optometrist recommends it. Jørgensen adds: “Failing to schedule regular eye tests can result in undiagnosed eye conditions. Conditions like glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and macular degeneration often develop without noticeable symptoms in their early stages, but early detection through eye tests is crucial for effective treatment and vision preservation.“ Routine eye tests can also pick up early signs of underlying systemic health conditions, such as diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. 2. Prolonged screen time The widespread use of digital devices such as laptops, tablets and smartphones has led to extended periods of screen time for both work and leisure, says Jørgensen. “This can result in digital eye strain, characterised by symptoms like dry eyes, headaches and blurred vision,” he explains. “In this age of digital technology, it’s advisable to relieve digital eye strain by using the 20-20-20 rule,” says Mensah – this means every 20 minutes, looking at something 20ft away for 20 seconds. “In addition, remember to blink when using a screen to prevent eyes from getting dry.” 3. Not wearing UV protective sunglasses Jørgensen says failing to wear sunglasses with adequate UV protection can lead to harmful UV radiation exposure, which may contribute to conditions like cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). “Protecting your eyes from UV rays, particularly in sunny conditions, is essential for preserving long-term eye health,” he stresses. Mensah says UV exposure can also increase the development of growths on the surface of the eyes called pterygia, and warns: “Not all sunglasses filter UV light, so ensure they carry the CE, UV 400 or British Standard Mark. And never look directly at the sun because this can cause a solar burn in the macula that can result in permanent visual loss.” 4. Poor diet and lack of nutrients Eating a healthy, balanced diet could help reduce your risk of sight-threatening eye disease such as AMD, which impacts central vision. Mensah explains that the macula – part of the retina which processes what you see directly in front of you – contains natural pigments such as lutein and zeaxanthin that are found in dark-green, leafy vegetables such as spinach and kale. “Vitamins A, C and E are also helpful, so eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables a day,” she advises. “And if you have a family history of AMD, ask your GP about taking nutritional supplements.” Jørgensen adds: “A poor diet lacking essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, and E, as well as minerals like zinc, can harm eye health, as these nutrients are vital for vision and overall eye function. To maintain healthy eyes, it’s crucial to consume a balanced diet rich in leafy greens, colourful fruits and vegetables, and omega-3 sources.” 5. Smoking If you’re a smoker, stopping is not only beneficial to your general health but also your eyes, says Mensah: “Smoking cessation is a modifiable factor that can reduce the risk of developing certain eye conditions such as AMD and cataracts.” Ask your GP for support if you are keen to quit – there are lots of helpful resources available. 6. Not wearing prescribed glasses Mensah says there’s a widespread misconception that wearing prescribed glasses worsens your eyesight. “This notion is inaccurate,” she stresses. “The primary reason for wearing prescribed glasses is simply because you require them. If you neglect to wear them, you run the risk of experiencing headaches.” 7. Inadequate lighting “Working or reading in areas with insufficient lighting can make your eyes work harder, leading to eye strain, discomfort, and poorer vision,” says Jørgensen. He points out that good lighting, often called ‘task lighting’, is vital for creating comfortable conditions for reading and working. Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Celebrities mingle with royals at glam Vogue World party in London Sienna Miller bares baby bump at celebrity and royal-studded Vogue event See plus-size model Ashley Graham stun in Old Hollywood-inspired Harris Reed LFW show

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The Princess of Wales will likely keep a close eye on the catwalks this season, as she’s been known to champion clothes from London Fashion Week (LFW) designers. The upcoming season kicks off on September 15 and will see major labels – including Burberry, Richard Quinn and Erdem – debuting their spring/summer 2024 collections. These are just some of the times Kate has worn LFW designers for royal engagements… 1. Erdem For the Commonwealth Day service in Westminster Abbey earlier this year, Kate stepped out in one of her go-to labels: Erdem. Helmed by designer Erdem Moralioglu, the brand is known for its romantic and floral aesthetic. For the service, Kate chose a navy ensemble featuring an all-over white flower print, made up of a peplum blazer with delicate chain detailing on the bodice, and a midi-length skirt. It was a well-chosen look, drawing upon a Commonwealth designer for the event – Moralioglu is originally from Canada. 2. Roksanda As a patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, Kate is a familiar face at Wimbledon – and in 2022 she attended the iconic event in a sunny yellow dress. The outfit, which had capped sleeves and bow detailing at the shoulder, was from Roksanda – a label known for its vibrant use of colour, helmed by Serbian designer Roksanda Ilincic. 3. Burberry Heritage brand Burberry is one of the most highly-anticipated shows on the London Fashion Week schedule, and Kate is obviously partial to its designs – she has even been spotted in one of the label’s iconic beige trench coats. She brought a bit of Britain to Canada on a 2011 trip, dressing down in an olive Burberry shirt during a visit to Blachford Lake near Yellowknife. 4. Stephen Jones Stephen Jones is often seen as the go-to milliner for the royals – his hats have been worn by the Duchess of Sussex, the late Diana, Princess of Wales, as well as Kate herself. One of Kate’s more experimental fashion moments in a Stephen Jones creation came at the 2011 Epsom Derby, when she wore a beret-style brown straw hat with a bow detailing. 5. Temperley London Many of Kate’s royal engagements require her to wear an evening gown, and she’ll often choose LFW stalwart Temperley London for the occasion. At the National Portrait Gala in 2017, she wore one of creative director Alice Temperley’s designs – a floor-length forest green lace gown with long sleeves and a high neck. 6. Emilia Wickstead Emilia Wickstead is another LFW designer who often features in the Princess of Wales’ wardrobe. Wickstead’s designs are very much in Kate’s wheelhouse: classic and demure cuts, usually in interesting colours or with a quirky twist. Kate wore a lemon midi dress with long sleeves to the National Service of Thanksgiving at St Paul’s Cathedral during the Platinum Jubilee celebrations in 2022, with the elegant dress given an added bit of interest thanks to twisted detailing at the waist. Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Pro-gamer Jukeyz ‘died for two minutes’ after cardiac arrest which left him ‘scared to sleep’ Young people not snowflakes or wasters, says curator of rebellious fashion exhibition Meet the man who grows the biggest vegetables in the world

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Ideas for your next road trip!