Analyzing the effect of blue-blocking lenses on color vision tests using the chromaticity coordinate method

Abstract

Significance: Blue light with wavelengths of 380–445 nm can harm the retina, leading to the development of blue-blocking lenses (BBLs). Understanding whether BBLs affect color vision test outcomes and color discrimination ability is crucial for people in color-associated jobs. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of BBLs on color vision tests and analyze color discrimination using mathematical models of color spaces. Approach: Six pseudoisochromatic (PIC) tests and two Farnsworth-Munsell (FM) tests were conducted to assess participants’ color vision. Friedman signed rank test was used to compare the outcomes of the Farnsworth-Munsell 100-Hue Tests (FM 100-Hue Tests) between the BBLs and ordinary lenses groups. The CIE color difference formula and a spectral illuminometer were employed to evaluate the color differences with and without BBLs. Results: All subjects showed normal outcomes in all PIC tests and Farnsworth-Munsell Dichotomous D-15 Tests (FM D-15 Tests). There were no significant differences between ordinary lenses group and BBLs groups in FM 100-Hue Tests. In the color space, the effect of BBLs on each color light was equivalent to a translation on the CIE 1931 chromaticity diagram with minor distortion. Since BBLs do not disrupt the continuity of the chromaticity diagram, or cause different colors to appear the same, they do not lead to color confusion. However, colors with short wavelengths exhibited more changes in color difference when wearing BBLs. Conclusions: BBLs do not impair the wearer's ability to discriminate colors or perform color vision tests accurately. However, BBLs can cause color differences especially in the recognition of blue hues.

Keywords

• Blue-blocking lenses
• CIE chromaticity diagram
• Pseudoisochromatic plate test
• Color discrimination