Myopia Control

Myopia control with GP contact lenses
Myopia Control -- Can GP contact lenses control nearsightedness in children? Myopia control in school-age children

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:

  • 69% believe that GP contacts may reduce the progression of childhood myopia

  • 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.

 
 

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Last update: 12 March 2008

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