The Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) has published Issue 64 of Contact Lens Update, exploring risks associated with lens wear non-compliance and insights to improve patient behaviours.
“Practitioners are all too aware of patients who wear their lenses beyond when they should be replaced. Whether due to forgetfulness, an attempt to save money, or otherwise, the challenge is widespread,” CORE director Professor Lyndon Jones said.
“This issue of Contact Lens Update provides evidence that eyecare practitioners can use to discuss potential unwelcome impacts with their patients, and provides a new tool to encourage correct replacement schedules.”
Distinguished Professor Emeritus at the School of Optometry and Vision Science at the University of Waterloo Mr Desmond Fonn writes the opening editorial. He provides a comprehensive review of the background behind frequent replacement and disposable lens development and evidence on the risks associated with stretching the life of a lens.
A feature article from Dr Debarun Dutta, lecturer at Aston University’s School of Optometry, discusses key findings from a paper investigating soft contact lens compliance. He offers valuable insights for clinicians on patients’ perspectives of lens wear and instructions received for aftercare, including advice on how to translate the findings into practice.
Mr John Gialousakis, Associate Professor at Midwestern University Chicago College of Optometry, recaps his poster presented at a recent American Academy of Optometry meeting. His work investigates whether providing appropriate education to contact lens wearers – including re-education – regarding handling and hygiene may ultimately result in fewer adverse reactions and bad habits.
Ms Alison Ng, clinical scientist at CORE, provides a useful patient handout summarising the clinical impact of stretching lens replacement times. The talk tool, appropriate for in-chair counsel or online use, helps practitioners speak with wearers about how to follow the replacement schedule most appropriate for the lenses they wear.
Published six times per year, Contact Lens Update is said to provide a global platform for unbiased clinical insights based in current research. Since 2011, each issue has provided dependable and up-to-date ocular health information for more than 60,000 leading eyecare professionals.
In addition to a complete archive of back issues, ContactLensUpdate.com offers a resource library that provides no-cost professional tools, patient resources, images and video.
It also houses complimentary technical training videos produced by International Association of Contact Lens Educators, plus an industry glossary. Industry professionals can access the latest issue directly from ContactLensUpdate.com or quickly sign up for email receipt of future issues.
The publication receives support from the educational arms of Alcon, CooperVision, and Johnson & Johnson Vision.
More reading
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New evidence dispels common myths about fitting soft contact lenses
