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As pickleball surges to nearly 20 million U.S. players, eye injuries are climbing, a JAMA Ophthalmology study finds, estimating 405 additional cases each year from 2021 to 2024. Using emergency department data, researchers say 70% of cases involved adults 50 and older and urge standardized eye protection, shown to reduce up to 90% of sports eye injuries. Risks include fast play on small courts and hits from balls, paddles, or falls. Experts recommend shatter-resistant polycarbonate eyewear meeting ASTM F3164, while noting awareness gaps and study limits. USA Pickleball did not reply to a request for comment.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.