A report published in the journal Optometry & Vision Science demonstrated that patients who replaced their silicone hydrogel (SH) contact lenses according to the manufacturer recommended replacement frequency (MRRF) experienced better comfort and vision at the end of the day than non-compliant patients. The analysis was part of a larger study sponsored by CIBA VISION, which was developed to investigate contact lens replacement schedule compliance.
“This study supports the belief that greater patient compliance may minimize the chance of experiencing discomfort with contact lenses, and thus, decrease the potential for patients to discontinue contact lens wear.”
Researchers at the Centre for Contact Lens Research (CCLR) at the University of Waterloo School of Optometry in Canada, confirmed in a survey of 1,334 U.S. contact lens wearers, higher compliance with manufacturer recommended replacement schedules for SH lenses among monthly replacement contact lens wearers (71%); lower rates were reported among two-week replacement SH lens wearers (41%).
"We know the number one reason people stop wearing contact lenses is discomfort, and this is particularly true when patients experience discomfort at the end of the day," said Bruce Hankin, O.D., an independent eye care professional. "This study supports the belief that greater patient compliance may minimize the chance of experiencing discomfort with contact lenses, and thus, decrease the potential for patients to discontinue contact lens wear."
The recommended replacement schedule for a contact lens is determined by the manufacturer to optimize the performance of the contact lens. Typically, contact lenses are replaced daily, every two weeks or monthly. Proteins, lipids and microorganisms can collect on the surface of contact lenses, so, for lenses that are going to be used more than once, it is important to clean contact lenses on removal from the eye and replace them at appropriate intervals.
"For the first time, a study demonstrates that proper contact lens replacement schedule compliance is associated with better vision and comfort," said the principal investigator of the study, Desmond Fonn, MOptom, F.A.A.O., Director, CCLR and Professor, University of Waterloo School of Optometry.
"CIBA VISION is proud to continue its global leadership in studying contact lens compliance issues as a way to help eye care professionals maximize the comfort, vision quality and eye health of their patients," said Dwight H. Akerman, O.D., F.A.A.O. (Dipl), Director of Professional Programs for CIBA VISION North America. "Through CIBA VISION ACADEMY FOR EYECARE EXCELLENCE™ educational programs we will continue to teach eye care professionals about the important patient benefits of one month and one day replacement contact lenses."
CIBA VISION offers a variety of contact lens options including the AIR OPTIX® brand of monthly replacement contact lenses and DAILIES® brand of daily replacement contact lenses to satisfy patients' lifestyle needs and replacement schedule habits in an effort to improve quality of vision and enhance eye comfort.
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