dolescents who are myopic (nearsighted) typically have
"progressive myopia" -- that is, nearsightedness that gets progressively greater
over time. Some research studies have shown that wearing GP contact lenses can help control this myopia.
Although use of GP contacts won't cure or stop progressive myopia, indications are that they may slow its
growth. In these studies, myopia didn't progress as fast -- or as much -- in children
wearing GP contact lenses, compared with children who wore soft contact
lenses or glasses.
An independent survey conducted in 2000 for the
Contact Lens Manufacturers Association queried more than 3,300 top contact lens
practitioners about myopia management with GP contact lenses. Of those surveyed:
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69% believe that GP contacts may
reduce the progression of childhood myopia
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76% say the #1 reason for recommending GPs to
school-aged children is either to "slow the progression of myopia" or
to "enhance vision."
Although there have been several studies on myopia control with positive indications for GP contact lenses, the
results have not been entirely conclusive. A study currently underway is expected to provide definitive answers.
Partially funded by the National Eye
Institute of the National Institutes of Health, the study is being coordinated by Jeffrey J.
Walline, O.D., M.S., senior research associate at The Ohio State University. Dr. Walline's
study follows about 110 children over a three-year period, utilizing control groups of
soft contact lens and spectacle wearers.
For more information about the National Eye Institute, please visit the web site.
For a more personal point of view, read what a father says about his daughter's success with myopia
control. |
