by Joel Harrison
30. August 2010 22:28
A study entitled "Emergency Department Visits for Medical Device-Associated Adverse Events Among Children", published on 26 July, disclosed an alarming number of ER visits caused by problems associated with contact lens wear, especially infections and abrasions. The study reviewed the records of ER departments at 100 hospitals and found that as many as 23% of cases were connected with contact lens injuries in children and teenagers.
The AAO stated that the results of the study support the Academy’s long-standing position that contact lenses need to be bought on prescription, fitted by a professional and require the consumer’s proper care. In addition, when it comes to children and teenagers, it is of vital importance to provide them with all the essential information on the risks of failure to comply with the recommendations of ophthalmologists and contact lens manufacturers.
There are no data indicating whether the injuries were caused by lenses bought on prescription or through over-the-counter sales, but the Academy emphasises that, as problems may occur even if proper care is maintained, all lenses must be fitted by eye care professionals.
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