EyeDocs of Rock Become the “Good Habits” in Support of New Contact Lens Institute Research
Research Shows Communications Adjustments Could Boost Contact Lens Adoption
Avalue Technology to Showcase Cutting-Edge Healthcare Solutions at HIMSS 2024
Latest CORE Publication Offers Specialty Contact Lens and Myopia Management Insights
Contact Lens Institute Reboots "EASY Does It" Video Series
SightGlass Vision Receives FDA Breakthrough Device Designation
Paw-sitive reception for robot guide dog could lead to new assistive technologies
Avalue to Exhibit at Arab Health 2024 to Facilitate Accuracy and Smooth Workflow in Healthcare
New HealthScribe & Conference Captioning Free Apps for the Deaf Community at CES 2024
CORE Explores Presbyopia Pharmacological Treatments in New Publication
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My Kids Vision: Strides in Community Impact and Exponential Growth in 2023
Myopia Profile, the internationally trusted clinical myopia management information center for eye care professionals (ECPs), concludes 2023 by celebrating the significant community impact of its My Kids Vision (www.mykidsvision.org) website. This free resource for parents, which provides easy-to-digest, evidence-based information on myopia and its management, has measurably heightened awareness and education, particularly following substantial platform upgrades in 2022. “Our motivation behind revamping My Kids Vision was to streamline the communication of the entire myopia message, recognizing that the intricacies involved could be a barrier to effective myopia management,” said Dr. Kate Gifford, co-founder of Myopia Profile. “Since the site’s relaunch, we’ve experienced an impressive 160% surge in pageviews, indicating an increase in parents and caregivers turning to our platform for informed decision-making regarding the vision health of their children.” Newly reported for 2023, ECPs across 194 countries regularly access My Kids Vision as an invaluable resource in guiding parents through their child’s myopia management journey. The platform experienced major global growth, with a 170% increase in the U.S., 155% in the U.K., and 165% in Canada. This widespread adoption is noteworthy as it ensures that an expanding number of countries, through access to the site’s Knowledge Center, are benefitting from over 50 articles explaining myopia, treatment options, and children’s vision. This growth not only emphasizes the global reach of My Kids Vision but also facilitates interventions that can optimize the vision and eye health outcomes of children with myopia well into their adult lives. “Leveraging the My Kids Vision website is invaluable for patient education at my practice. Instructional videos, especially on the art of contact lens handling, save time and positively impact patient and parent readiness for discussions on myopia management,” said Dr. Heidi Hunter, optometrist and managing director at Custom Eyecare, Newcastle, Australia. “The site provides clarity, professionalism, and expert insights and serves as a guiding light, offering much-needed information, reassurance, and empowerment for informed decisions about children’s eye health,” said Dr. David Kading, optometrist at Specialty Eye, Seattle, Washington. Several key features of My Kids Vision are currently available in seven languages. Additional languages for the Knowledge Center and other content are in development. For more information, visit www.mykidvision.org
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Ocular Research Group Honored with Prestigious Brockhouse Prize
An interdisciplinary, multi-institutional team has won the prestigious Brockhouse Canada Prize for Interdisciplinary Research in Science and Engineering. The Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) bestowed the honor on the C20/20 Innovation Hub, which comprises scientists, engineers and clinicians from McMaster University, the University of Toronto, and the University of Waterloo. Dr. Lyndon Jones, director the Centre for Ocular Research and Education (CORE) at Waterloo’s School of Optometry and Vision Science, is one of seven core investigators on the team, which is led by Dr. Heather Sheardown, a McMaster professor of chemical engineering. The team’s aim is to develop and commercialize methods to better deliver drugs to the eye. Presented annually, the Brockhouse Prize is reserved for highly collaborative Canadian teams of researchers from different disciplines who have combined their expertise to produce achievements of outstanding significance in the natural sciences and engineering. NSERC stated that C20/20 has become an “internationally recognized innovation center for its ophthalmic therapies and devices, and for the wide-ranging training and mentoring of highly qualified personnel, whose impact has improved the lives of millions of Canadians suffering from ocular diseases and vision impairment.” Currently, most drugs for eye diseases are delivered in the form of eyedrops. However, drugs are removed from the surface of the eye very quickly via the tear draining system and due to blinking. As a result, most drops stay on the eye for only about five minutes. “Typically, to get the relevant therapeutic effect, the drug needs to be at a very high concentration. That results in toxicity issues and extra cost,” said Jones. “If we could slow the drainage of the drug from the eye, we’d have far more effective drops.” Some drugs are delivered via injection to the back of the eyes, which is unpopular with patients. The C20/20 team is working on ways to improve drug delivery methods to both the front and the back of the eye. The $250,000 CAD grant that comes with the Brockhouse Prize will help team members continue with their research efforts. Jones’ research focuses on making eyedrops more effective by having drugs bind to mucin receptors, which cover much of the surface of the eye. Mucin is a protein with a gel-like consistency, so if a drug is attached to something that’s attracted to mucin, it would hold onto the eye surface much longer, while improving its uptake into ocular tissue. “Some of the animal studies we looked at showed we could get an effective result with about one-tenth of the concentration of traditional dry eye prescription drugs,” he said. So far, the team has shown the safety and effectiveness of the new method in animal models. Jones estimates it will be five years before human clinical trials can be completed and another few years before new mucin-binding eye drops reach the market. Jones’ collaboration with Sheardown dates to the early 2000s, while the C20/20 team was formed in 2008. Since then, the team has trained some 100 early-career scientists, published numerous papers, and filed multiple patents. “This prize is collaborative,” noted Jones, who is cross appointed to the departments of Biology, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Physics at Waterloo. “You can’t be good at everything, so I’ve always searched for collaborators. That’s how research needs to be done these days.” Additional co-investigators on the C20/20 Innovation Hub team include Professor Todd Hoare (Chemical Engineering) and Dr. Judith West-Mays (Pathology & Molecular Medicine) at McMaster University; Professor Frank Gu (Nanoengineering) at University of Toronto; and Chiefs of Ophthalmology Professor Varun Chaudhary of St. Joseph’s Hospital/McMaster University and Dr. David Wong of St. Michael’s Hospital/University of Toronto.
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Avalue will Showcase Healthcare Solutions at MEDICA 2023 to Enhance the User Experience of Medical Professionals
Avalue Technology Inc. (TAIEX: 3479-TW), a global industrial PC solution provider and a Titanium member of the Intel® Internet of Things Solutions Alliance. Avalue Technology will exhibit at the MEDICA to enhance the user experience of professional medical users from November 13 to 16, 2023. We are honored to collaborate with our two strategic partners, CYP and Compal, to demonstrate solutions including: Hybrid OT Imaging Endoscope AI HPC Smart Ward Solutions Rehab Application Telemedicine Cart Solution We will showcase the medical operation theater imaging streaming solution. Via Avalue’s 32” 4K medical monitor and medical panel PC, videos and images are well captured, replayed and archived. Enable clinical staff and surgeons to improve perception of details during the complicated procedures. Furthermore, hospitals can share content remotely and efficiently, also integrate different imaging sources by the split screen function. Deliver key messages for professionals, students and even patients. About the endoscope AI HPC solution, integrated with 3D glasses and 3D panel, Avalue’s medical grade high performance AI box MAB-T600 can undergo heavy computing for medical grade high quality imaging and in the meantime offer 3D visualization by the glass for the of patient anatomy to enable better decision-making and safer surgeries. Avalue’s smart ward solution includes ePaper display for 42” communication board and 25” digital signage and patient infotainment. Designed to keep patients informed and involved in their healthcare journey, also prioritize communication. In the field of rehabilitation, this solution redefines the interactive rehabilitation tool to individual needs, help patient through their exercises and track their progress. Additionally, Avalue demonstrate the new open frame panel PC which designed to optimize exercise equipment like treadmills, providing customized fitness routine and enjoyable workout experience. Telemedicine is not just a technological advancement. Powerful portable batteries ensure uninterrupted medical care; AVer medical grade PTZ cameras with AI functions designed for patient monitoring; and a medical panel PC featuring LED alert light bars seamlessly integrate into workflow and enhance the alert visibility, allowing for a swift response to emergencies. This capability can further extended by incorporating a portable ultrasound and a compact PACS, facilitating remote diagnosis and imaging for more efficient patient care. The collaborative effort will bring together innovative technology and expertise from us to create solutions that are set to revolutionize healthcare, enhancing patient care and outcomes. To find out more about Avalue’s smart healthcare solutions, visit Avalue and our partners at Hall 17, booth #E16-4, and experience it for yourself! Visit www.avalue.com.tw for more information on Avalue products, or contact sales@avalue.com.tw to talk to our sales team.
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New Certification "Eye Comfort" from TÜV Rheinland
TÜV Rheinland has launched a new "Eye Comfort" star-rating certification for testing displays. For the certification, TÜV Rheinland experts test and classify displays in terms of eye comfort within a 5-star rating system. Especially for people who spend a lot of time in front of a computer screen and are particularly health conscious, this system offers transparent assistance in monitor selection. Starting in November, Dell Technologies will be the first company to launch two new Dell UltraSharp displays with the new "Eye Comfort" certification with top ratings. Transparent rating system – 15 test categories The classification system developed by TÜV Rheinland offers consumers complete transparency in terms of test criteria and results, summarized in an intuitively understandable 5-point scale. The “Eye Comfort” certification process examines three technical dimensions (image quality, ambient light management, eye care technology) and 15 different test categories that have shown to have a significant impact on eye comfort. "Features like good image quality, high refresh rate and good ambient light management, such as intelligent brightness and CCT adaptation to ambient light, help reduce visual fatigue", explains Stanley Liu, display certification expert from TÜV Rheinland. "For example, the higher the refresh rate, the smoother the image and the higher the eye comfort and the corresponding score." Note here: Only if a screen achieves a 5-star rating in all 15 categories will the overall result also be a 5-star rating. Consumers can access a detailed presentation of the different test categories via TÜV Rheinland's Certipedia certificate database. A corresponding QR code or the ID of the test seal is printed on the packaging of correspondingly certified products. 5 stars: What are the features of displays that are particularly easy on the eyes and comfortable to use? For example, a 5 Star “Eye Comfort” Certified monitor has a high refresh rate (≥ 120 Hz) and high color accuracy. It also has hardware to reduce blue light and flicker, as well as brightness and color temperature control for ambient lighting. These features enhance health protection and reduce visual fatigue. Health relevance and determination of test criteria of the "Eye Comfort" certification In recent years, rapid advances in display technology have led to significant developments in display quality in terms of pixel density, color accuracy, consistency, color space coverage and refresh rate. To keep pace with these advances in IT product development, TÜV Rheinland has fundamentally revised its existing certifications. The new generation of eye comfort certification is no longer limited to the old low blue light or flicker-free labels. Instead, it is a completely redesigned test standard that covers a broader range of safety indicators, such as ambient brightness, color temperature adjustment and regulation, and brightness uniformity. A device with an “Eye Comfort” Certification by TÜV Rheinland assures consumers that it meets the highest standards for eye protection technology. TÜV Rheinland's “Eye Comfort” classification system for monitors is based on the report on the ergonomics of high refresh rate monitors published by the LHFE (National Key Laboratory of Human Factors and Ergonomics) in 2023, as well as TÜV Rheinland's own technical standards – with more than 15 years of experience in display safety testing.
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CORE Publishes Contact Lens Sustainability Infographics Series in 25 Diverse Languages
The Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) has published a series of infographics in 25 diverse languages that encourage responsible contact lens recycling and disposal. The initiative resulted from widespread positive feedback about four English-only versions released earlier this year. The series is now available for download and use by the global eye care community at https://contactlensupdate.com/2023/10/31/contact-lens-sustainability-infographics/ Languages now include Afrikaans, Arabic, Croatian, Danish, Dutch, English, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Hindi, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Malay, Norwegian, Persian, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Serbian, Slovak, Spanish, Swedish, and Vietnamese. CORE plans to distribute additional languages over the coming months. The four separate designs are intended for professional and consumer educational purposes, as sustainable practices and programs are becoming more established within the contact lens sector. One infographic helps communicate with wearers about relative impact, putting contact lens-related waste into context with other common products and lifestyle habits. Two others explain the best routes for ideal contact lens disposal, while a fourth reminds wearers not to place their contacts into wastewater systems. These can be provided to patients directly as printed resources, sent via email or text, or used on social media and practice websites to make consumers aware of available options. “Several contact lens manufacturers have demonstrated sustainability commitments by preventing waste and inspiring reuse, recycling, recovery, and responsible disposal. Helping patients grasp that they can enjoy their contacts while remaining environmentally responsible is something we should all be reinforcing,” said Daddi Fadel, DOptom, clinical scientist with CORE and the coordinator of the translation initiative.
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CLI Publishes Comprehensive Contact Lens Culture Report
The Contact Lens Institute™ (CLI) today published “The Culture Calculation: Data-Backed Behaviors for Contact Lens Success” in collaboration with The Vision Council. The in-depth guide, the latest in CLI’s “See Tomorrow” research series, is designed to help eye care practices enhance their contact lens cultures, in turn increasing patient satisfaction and practice business outcomes. It can be read or downloaded for no cost in the resources section of ContactLensInstitute.org. The 19-page, infographic-rich report blends new quantitative research with practical insights and recommendations from forward-thinking optometrists, opticians, and technicians. Its release was timed to the 2023 American Academy of Optometry annual meeting in New Orleans. “We previewed portions of our culture data at Vision Expo West to tremendous response. Emphasizing the upside potential for speaking with more patients about contact lenses and holistically measuring their value to a practice really struck a chord,” said Stan Rogaski, executive director of the Contact Lens Institute. “The full report goes considerably further, identifying what factors have the most potential to drive a positive contact lens culture both today and over the next three years. Paired with our other See Tomorrow projects and consumer data, it offers a customizable roadmap for eye care practices of all sizes.” When asked which of 21 culture-building factors could make the greatest difference if given more attention or resources, responses were spread across several possibilities. After accounting for product availability, as well as new products and treatments, members of the eye care community focused on items under their direct control: education and training, in-office advocacy, and the emotional and professional benefits of prescribing contact lenses. Advancements in contact lens products and treatments likewise ranked high among factors that will have the greatest impact through 2026. Profitability as a driver of contact culture is also on the radar for the next three years, identified by 21% of the eye care community as having significant potential. These responses suggest that savvy leaders may devote more energy to keeping their teams and patients informed about contact lens improvements, as well as better evaluating the practice management advantages of contact lens prescribing. “CLI members appreciate the strong enthusiasm for continued contact lens access and innovation—something the industry has done for decades, with more to come as manufacturers make sizable investments in R&D and production,” said Rogaski. “We are also excited to see the focus on practice management-related culture drivers in the near future. Our findings indicate considerable potential to rethink how contact lens profitability is structured and calculated, and the report offers guidance and perspectives from highly successful colleagues.” The research also saw respondents overwhelmingly state that online retail presented the greatest perceived threat to contact lens culture. In addition to presenting several components to help practices improve their digital commerce competitiveness, the report includes evidence-based commentary from Alysse Henkel, senior director of Market Research and Analytics for The Vision Council. She says the organization’s consumer research indicates potential disruption may not be as potent as anticipated: convenience is the primary reason for online contact lens purchases (52%), which is well ahead of price (39%). With online buyers reporting similar spending to in-person buyers, there’s considerable room for confident practices to market their convenience advantages to patients. Additional guest columns were contributed by several 2023 Contact Lens Institute Visionaries, including Shelby Brogdon, OD, McFarland Eye Care, Little Rock, Ark.; Andrew Bruce, LDO, ABOM, NCLE-AC, ASB Opticianry Education Services, Vancouver, Wash.; Ariel Cerenzie, OD, FAAO, FSLS, Charlotte Contact Lens Institute*, Charlotte, N.C.; Sabrina Gaan, OD, Eyes on Plainville, Plainville, Mass.; Lisa Hornick, OD, FAAO, Stanford Ranch Optometry, Rocklin, Calif.; Jennifer Lyerly, OD, TrueVision Eye Care, Raleigh, N.C.; Diana Mejia, Bellaire Family Eye Care, Houston, Texas; and Mark Schaeffer, OD, MyEyeDr, Birmingham, Ala. Data was garnered through a custom-designed survey to The Vision Council’s U.S. Eye Care Provider Panel in August 2023. 173 qualified responses reflected a mix of optometrists (51%), opticians (35%), and ophthalmologists (5%), with practice managers and owners also included. The survey had a sampling error margin of +/- 6.5% and a 95% confidence rate. The Contact Lens Institute advances the latest innovations in safe and effective contact lens and lens care products and services that provide unique benefits to patients while satisfying the evolving needs of eye care professionals. CLI undertakes activities that properly assess, enhance, promote and balance contact lens and lens care industry welfare and growth, including the safe use of products in the marketplace. Its members include Alcon, Bausch + Lomb, CooperVision, and Johnson & Johnson Vision. For more information, visit contactlensinstitute.org
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CORE Announces Broadest Ever Scientific Program for New Orleans
The Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) has announced a multifaceted series of scientific presentations, lectures, and posters for the American Academy of Optometry 2023 Annual Meeting, scheduled from October 11-14. The diverse lineup represents the breadth of the organization’s expertise and impact across the optometric world, which has accelerated during the past several years. Among CORE’s offerings are sessions on tear film stability, Meibomian Gland Dysfunction and dry eye, sustained drug delivery devices for the eye, presbyopia-correcting multifocal contact lens fitting, a new tool to assist orthokeratology fit success, and the impact of myopia control lenses on vision. “Our work has evolved to consistently span a broad range of clinically relevant pharmaceuticals, devices, and practices, and we’re privileged to share some of our latest findings and insights during Academy ‘23. After thirty-five years—including the last six under the CORE brand—our industry collaborations continue to grow, with more innovation ahead,” said Lyndon Jones, PhD, DSc, FCOptom, FAAO, the director of CORE. Six CORE scientists will be featured in eight different talks in New Orleans: AZR MD 001 Improved Tear Film Stability and Symptoms of Meibomian Gland Dysfunction in a 6-Month Study Sign and Symptom Improvement Rates Among MGD Patients Following 6 Months of Treatment with AZR MD 001 Rapid Fire: Dry Eye in 2023 Sustained Drug Delivery Devices for the Eye Task-Based Evaluations of Two Daily Disposable Soft Multifocal Lenses Investigation of Ease of Fit to a Different Daily Disposable Multifocal Soft Lens Subjective Vision Experience in Soft Myopia Control Contact Lenses by Age Software Guided Orthokeratology Fitting Success The CORE rebrand was announced at Academy 2018 in Chicago, conceived to illustrate the organization’s substantial expansion from its early roots in contact lens clinical studies. In celebration of its six years under the new name, CORE plans to release several infographics that spotlight various projects, publications, education, people, and more in the coming weeks.
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CLI Previews Contact Lens Culture Research at Vision Expo
New research previewed during Vision Expo West reveals that creating and maintaining a positive contact lens culture within eye care practices takes a multifactorial approach, offering several pathways for patient and business success. The Contact Lens Institute™—in partnership with The Vision Council—presented a sneak peek of its forthcoming report, “The Culture Calculation: Data-Backed Behaviors for Contact Lens Success,” from the conference’s Innovation Stage. The organizations jointly surveyed 173 members of the U.S. eye care community, asking a range of questions regarding beliefs and behaviors when it comes to cultivating contact lens enthusiasm among their colleagues and patients. Responses included perspectives from optometrists, opticians, ophthalmologists, and practice administrators. “Since 2021, our See Tomorrow initiative has uncovered valuable consumer insights for the eye care community. The latest effort turned the lens inward, for the first time quantifying what’s involved to create, nurture, and expand positive contact lens cultures,” said Stan Rogaski, executive director of the Contact Lens Institute. “Unlocking this knowledge has the potential to inspire better patient satisfaction and practice management outcomes alike.” Chief among the previewed findings is that 94% of respondents believe their practices already have a positive contact lens culture. 84% of practices encourage doctors and staff to recommend contact lenses, with the same percentage encouraging patients to consider this form of vision correction. Those beliefs are in stark contrast to actual behaviors. The new data indicates that only 49% of practices discuss contact lenses with the majority of eligible, non-lens wearing patients. This validates prior See Tomorrow consumer research, in which more than two-thirds of patients did not recall contact lenses being discussed during their last two office visits. In a related survey earlier this year, 44% of glasses-only wearers expressed interest in contact lenses, but stated the possibility was never raised by their doctor or staff. The research team also asked the eye care community to rate the importance of more than 20 factors that affect a positive contact lens culture. Product access and advancements topped the list, followed closely by elements over which a practice has more direct control, including education and training, in-office advocacy, and the emotional and professional benefits staff receive by prescribing contact lenses. The final data set within the preview focused on the financial upsides of contact lenses. Surprisingly, only 47% of respondents indicated their practices quantify the business impacts of contact lens patients compared to patients who rely on other forms of vision correction. Of those that do perform some type of assessment, 56% report that contact lens patients are more profitable. This raises several questions regarding tracking and analysis methodologies, the under-utilization of strategies such as prescribing glasses to current contact lens patients, and myths that may color perspectives on the topic. “The golden thread across our culture research findings is opportunity—opportunity to have more patient conversations, opportunity to enhance certain practice elements to motivate colleagues, and opportunity to better measure the substantial economic value of contact lenses to the eye care community,” said Rogaski. The expert panel at the Venetian Convention & Expo Center was moderated by Charissa Lee, OD, FAAO, a member of the Contact Lens Institute Board. Joining her were Alysse Henkel, senior director, Market Research & Analytics for The Vision Council, as well as 2023 Contact Lens Institute Visionaries Shelby Brogdon, OD, McFarland Eye Care, Little Rock; Sabrina Gaan, OD, Eyes on Plainville, Plainville, Mass.; and Lisa Hornick, OD, FAAO, Stanford Ranch Optometry, Rocklin, Calif. The comprehensive “The Culture Calculation: Data-Backed Behaviors for Contact Lens Success” report with additional reporting categories and analysis will be published in mid-October 2023. The Contact Lens Institute advances the latest innovations in safe and effective contact lens and lens care products and services that provide unique benefits to patients while satisfying the evolving needs of eye care professionals. CLI undertakes activities that properly assess, enhance, promote and balance contact lens and lens care industry welfare and growth, including the safe use of products in the marketplace. Its members include Alcon, Bausch + Lomb, CooperVision, and Johnson & Johnson Vision. For more information, visit contactlensinstitute.org
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SightGlass Vision Releases First White Paper on Diffusion Optics Technology
SightGlass Vision today announced the release of its first white paper regarding the company’s Diffusion Optics Technology™ (DOT 0.2) spectacle lenses. The lenses use thousands of light scattering elements called dots, designed to mimic more natural contrast on the retina—a unique mechanism of action to slow myopia progression in children. The in-depth paper explains the relationship between artificially high contrast signals at the retina and myopia progression. This groundbreaking research led to the development of DOT to manage such contrast, now clinically proven via the pivotal CYPRESS study to slow myopia progression in children from age six. Its efficacy is particularly of note for the youngest patients, who would typically experience the fastest progression. The white paper can be read online or downloaded as a PDF at https://www.sightglassvision.com/resources-for-eye-care-professionals “Harnessing the power of contrast management is a revolutionary approach to controlling myopia. Our DOT spectacle lenses are now paving a new path to reducing myopia progression from an early age. This white paper goes deeper into the science to explain the mechanisms of action, helping eye care professionals better understand the innovation,” said SightGlass Vision Vice President of Clinical, Medical & Professional Affairs Marcella McParland. “As a more recent entrant into the myopia management field, our Diffusion Optics Technology paper will help disseminate the substantial science behind contrast management and its application. DOT spectacle lenses present a compelling alternative to existing solutions for slowing myopia’s progression in children,” added Andrew Sedgwick, SightGlass Vision’s CEO. Over the last two years, SightGlass Vision’s patent-protected technology with clinically proven efficacy1,2,3,4 made its commercial debut in several markets, including China, the Netherlands, and Israel, as well as through preliminary market trials in other countries. The company operates as a joint venture of CooperCompanies and EssilorLuxottica. For more information, visit SightGlassVision.com
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CORE’s Lyndon Jones to Headline Global Contact Lens Forum at Vision Expo West 2023
One of the eye care profession’s most in-demand speakers will headline the Vision Expo West 2023 Global Contact Lens Forum, which is scheduled for Wednesday, September 27 in Las Vegas. For the first time, Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) Director Lyndon Jones joins the event’s faculty, sharing insights alongside peers Melissa Barnett, Jason Compton, Janelle Davison, and Sheila Morrison. The Forum ‘meeting within a meeting’ design—which runs from 8:30 am to 3:15 pm PT—is structured to provide practical, timely clinical and business processes tips for any professional that recommends, fits, or prescribes contact lenses. Topics include new products and technologies, ‘leveling up’ practice management pearls, and the good, bad, and ugly of myopia control. Participants can earn up to four hours of continuing education (CE) credits at no additional cost. Dr. Jones will also join Dr. Barnett, Dr. Compton, and Dr. Shalu Pal the following day for “The Greatest Contact Lens Course Ever.” The two-hour session promises a series of rapid-paced presentations, including drug delivery, myopia management and scleral lenses, to expand attendees’ contact lens knowledge and patient interactions. Vision Expo West pre-registration for educational courses is required at west.visionexpo.com. Dr. Jones has delivered more than 1,000 invited lectures at conferences in more than 40 countries, has authored over 400 refereed and professional papers, and is rated among the top 10 optometry researchers worldwide by OptomRankings.com. He most recently was a featured speaker at the 4th World Congress of Optometry / O=MEGA23 conference in Melbourne, Australia.
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SightGlass Vision Reports Positive Four-Year Clinical Trial Outcomes for Myopia Control DOT Spectacle Lenses
SightGlass Vision today reported positive four-year outcomes from its pivotal CYPRESS study extension, which is evaluating the myopia control performance of the company’s Diffusion Optics Technology™ (DOT 0.2) spectacle lenses. The lenses use thousands of light scattering elements called dots, designed to mimic more natural contrast on the retina—a unique mechanism of action to slow myopia progression in children. The findings are being presented at the 27th Congress of the Chinese Ophthalmological Society (CCOS), held in Changsha, Hunan Province. Thousands of eye care clinicians, researchers, and educators from across China and overseas attend the biennial event. Control of Myopia using Diffusion Optics Technology Spectacle Lenses: Efficacy and Safety Study (CYPRESS) 4 Year Results (Zhu X, McParland M, et al) affirmed DOT 0.2 safety and efficacy in children aged 6–10 at the study’s initiation [1]. Part two of the study—designed to collect 12 additional months of data—re-enrolled 98 participants from the original three-year, double-masked, randomized, multi-site clinical trial. Full four-year outcomes showed statistically significant slowing of axial length progression and cycloplegic spherical equivalent refraction (cSER), with the most recent data underscoring strong DOT 0.2 performance. During the 36- to 48-month timeframe, axial length mean change was 0.13 ±0.02 mm for the test group (n=55) and 0.18 ±0.02 mm for the control (n=41; p=0.038). cSER mean change was -0.25 ±0.04 D for the test group and -0.38 ±0.05 D for control (p=0.043). “The CYPRESS four-year findings confirm the demonstrated efficacy, safety, and overall performance of Diffusion Optics Technology™ spectacle lenses,” said Andrew Sedgwick, CEO of SightGlass Vision. “Eye care professionals worldwide are demanding this level of scientific rigor, allowing them to confidently recommend the lenses to children and their caregivers. SightGlass Vision is proud to advance the myopia control category with our latest research and technologies, and enthusiastic about growing opportunities for spectacles in a child’s treatment regimen.” A separate presentation at CCOS explored the theoretical basis and practical application of DOT lenses. Discussion of DOT Lenses Based on Contrast Reduction Theory and Real-World Case Sharing (Wang D, Xie P, Huang J) analyzed the influence of contrast in children's refractive development, the interaction between contrast signals and peripheral defocus signals, and the clinical performance of DOT lenses based on contrast reduction. Comparing existing studies with clinical observations of 117 Chinese children wearing DOT 0.2 lenses for 1 year, investigators concluded that contrast management delayed myopia progression, and that the lenses were effective and safe. Over the last two years, SightGlass Vision’s patent-protected technology with clinically proven efficacy [1,2,3,4] made its commercial debut in several markets, including China, the Netherlands, and Israel, as well as through preliminary market trials in other countries. The company operates as a joint venture of CooperCompanies and EssilorLuxottica. For more information, visit SightGlassVision.com ### 1 Chalberg T., et al. Control of Myopia Using Diffusion Optics Spectacle Lenses: Efficacy and Safety Study (CYPRESS) 42-month results. ARVO 2023 Annual Meeting presentation. 27 April 2023. 2 Control of myopia using Diffusion Optics Technology™ spectacle lenses: 12-month results of a randomised controlled, efficacy and safety study (CYPRESS). British Journal of Ophthalmology Published Online First: 01 September 2022. DOI: 10.1136/bjo-2021-321005 3 Rappon J., et al. Two-year effectiveness of a novel myopia management spectacle lens with full-time WEARERS. Invest. Ophthalmol. Vis. Sci. 2022;63(7):408. 4 Laughton, D et al. Safety and Efficacy of a Novel Spectacle Lens for Myopia Control Over Three Years. 2022 American Academy of Optometry annual meeting. 27 Oct 2022.
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CORE Publishes Guidance on Ocular Surface Immunology for Better Patient Care
In response to increased clinical interest regarding ocular surface immunology, the Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) has published a collection of resources to create a greater understanding among the global eye care community. Issue 73 of Contact Lens Update focuses on the topic and is available at no charge by visiting ContactLensUpdate.com. “The ocular surface forms the main line of defence in protecting the eye against external pathogens and has a crucial inflammation-regulating role. Inflammatory eye conditions disrupt the homeostasis of the immune system and can result in reduced quality of life or permanent sight loss,” said Lyndon Jones, director of CORE. “Increased awareness of the pathophysiology, early diagnosis, and effective management of ocular surface disease can benefit practitioners and patients alike.” In primary eye care settings, immunological conditions that impact the ocular surface are routinely observed in people suffering from allergic conjunctivitis, dry eye, Sjögren’s syndrome, and rheumatoid arthritis. As knowledge of ocular surface immunology continues to evolve, eye care practitioners who are familiar with the latest research and treatment options can offer a higher standard of care. Sezen Karakus, assistant professorat the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, shares her expertise in the issue’s editorial. Her comprehensive review explains key components involved in protecting the ocular surface, and details changes that occur in commonly encountered diseases, including immune and autoimmune conditions. She provides an overview of current research and discusses areas that may soon become part of a clinician’s treatment arsenal. The feature article is authored by Jeremy Chung Bo Chiang, a postdoctoral research associate at Aston University. He succinctly presents the four stages underlying the immunopathogensis of dry eye disease, followed by valuable information about current topical ophthalmic treatments, their mechanisms of action, and clinical tips. Barbara Caffery, an optometrist at Toronto Eye Care and former president of the American Academy of Optometry, shares her knowledge in the issue’s clinical insight column. The case report details a patient’s journey through an initial examination, dry eye diagnosis, and management. She then poses important questions that can help identify people who may have Sjögren’s syndrome and delves into additional tests required for diagnosis. The conference highlight is contributed by Elyana Locatelli, a pre-medical student and research fellow at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami. Based on her poster that was presented at the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology 2023 annual meeting, the retrospective study examines the subjective preference of cyclosporine compared to lifitegrast in patients with dry eye, and investigates whether any patient factors were associated with medication choice. Published six times per year, Contact Lens Update provides 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 eye care 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.
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Enhanced Myopia Profile Website Boosts ECPs' Learning Journey
Myopia Profile, the globally recognized clinical myopia management information center for eye care professionals (ECPs), today announced the launch of its redesigned website, www.myopiaprofile.com. The updated platform introduces an array of innovative features and expanded functionalities, curated to streamline and elevate the myopia management learning experience. In addition, two new features will further support ECPs by providing more in-depth product information and an advanced search functionality. “The new website represents a significant step forward in our commitment to providing ECPs with essential resources for effective myopia management,” said Dr. Paul Gifford, co-founder of Myopia Profile. “A seamless user experience empowers the eye care community through a wealth of resources and insights that ultimately translate into better patient outcomes.” Introducing the Myopia Control Product Compendium The revamped site includes a new Myopia Control Product Compendium (www.myopiaprofile.com/products), which combines articles, case studies, and science reviews with tailored information on products for myopia control. This world-first resource empowers ECPs to understand the available options, their effectiveness, and how to best prescribe them for patients’ unique needs. Each product listing within the Compendium includes direct links to specific topical articles, along with a collection of prescribing resources provided by the respective companies. Enhanced Knowledge Centre with Advanced Search Capabilities Another new addition is a user-friendly, powerful Knowledge Centre with enhanced search capabilities. ECPs can now effortlessly search this more than 500-piece encyclopedic volume of information for both clinical (www.myopiaprofile.com/articles/category/clinical) and science articles (www.myopiaprofile.com/articles/category/science). Open-field search provides instant access to sought-after knowledge. Guided search options are also available, where ECPs can explore by article type or choose from 22 curated topic headings. “We invested countless hours in building the Myopia Control Product Compendium and the Enhanced Knowledge Center, driven by our belief in their potential to revolutionize how ECPs approach research and treatment knowledge, and how it would ultimately impact patient care,” said Dr. Gifford. The new website launch comes just ahead of Myopia Profile’s first annual Myopia Action Month, scheduled to begin in September 2023. ECPs are invited to visit the new website at www.myopiaprofile.com
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Myopia Action Month Approaches: Website and ECP Survey Debut and Increasing Industry Support
Myopia Profile, the internationally trusted clinical myopia management information center for eye care professionals (ECPs), today announced several developments for its highly anticipated inaugural Myopia Action Month, scheduled for September 2023. The international event serves as an inspiring platform to bring together ECPs from around the world in a collective effort to combat the escalating prevalence of childhood myopia. Today’s launch of a dedicated website and ECP survey, plus the addition of several new industry sponsors, will further expand the initiative’s momentum. “Early intervention and elevating the standard of pediatric vision care are pivotal in improving outcomes for children with myopia,” said Dr. Kate Gifford, co-founder of Myopia Profile. “Myopia Action Month encourages even more ECPs to be a part of the solution by providing them with the educational materials and clinical practice tools necessary to start taking action now, or for those already involved, to have a greater impact.” The new, dedicated Myopia Action Month website (myopiaaction.com) is a central hub for exclusive news, resources, and activities updates. ECPs are encouraged to visit the site to sign up for timely e-newsletter updates leading up to the month-long initiative. In addition, a “Have Your Say” survey empowers ECPs to share insights regarding the educational and clinical materials they want come September. This input will be instrumental in shaping the event to cater to their needs and aspirations, ensuring that Myopia Action Month becomes a personalized and impactful experience for all participants. Curriculum assets that will be shaped by ECP feedback include evidence-based and clinically relevant educational materials, practice tools, and online resources. Six additional industry organizations have signed on as Myopia Action Month backers. Topcon Healthcare joins previously announced Premier Sponsors CooperVision, EssilorLuxottica, and Johnson & Johnson Vision. HOYA, Menicon, Ocumetra, SightGlass Vision, and Visioneering Technologies, Inc. have joined as Supporting Sponsors. “We recognize that collective action is vital to address the growing prevalence of childhood myopia,” said Dr. Gifford, “The enthusiasm and support from our esteemed Premier Sponsors and Supporting Sponsors reflect the shared commitment to make a positive difference in the lives of children worldwide.” Visit myopiaaction.com for more information, to sign up for e-newsletter updates, and to take the “Have Your Say” survey.
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Prudential teams up with Bangkok Dusit Medical Services to offer customers access to affordable high-quality breast cancer treatment
Prudential plc (Prudential) today announced a regional partnership with Bangkok Dusit Medical Services (BDMS) to provide its customers in Asia access to breast cancer treatment and other related services in Thailand. Through this collaboration, all insured customers of Prudential in Hong Kong, Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia and Myanmar can seek treatment for breast cancer with cost certainty at BDMS' renowned Bangkok Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand. BDMS is the largest private hospital network in Thailand and has established Bangkok Cancer Hospital Wattanosoth, the first private cancer hospital in the country located within Bangkok Hospital. Customers who are eligible and clinically appropriate* for this value-added service will benefit from a predetermined ceiling amount for a 12-month treatment period, including both treatment costs and certain accommodation expenses[1]. All or part of the treatment costs will be covered by any health insurance policies they may have with Prudential. In addition, customers will have access to translation services, airport pickups, and concierge services. The collaboration reflects Prudential's commitment to narrow the health and protection gap by making affordable healthcare more accessible. The Asia Pacific region is home to 60 percent of the world's population and accounts for about 50 percent of total global cancer incidence, according to the Economist Intelligence Unit[2]. With rapidly ageing populations and changes in lifestyles and environmental exposures, cancer treatment is expected to play an increasingly important role in the health of the region[3]. Solmaz Altin, Managing Director, Strategic Business Unit, Prudential plc, said, "The claims data across our markets consistently show that cancer treatment is the highest health claim cost for our customers compared to other types of treatment. In Hong Kong and Indonesia for example, breast cancer treatment accounts for over 25 percent of our total cancer-related health claims cost in each market. With increasing healthcare costs, a cancer diagnosis may pose a financial burden on patients and their families. "Having timely access to quality and affordable healthcare is key to treating the disease and reducing financial challenges. This is why we've partnered with BDMS to offer high-quality medical care for our customers in Asia with the assurance that they do not have to pay more than the agreed maximum amount." Narumol Noi-am, Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Bangkok Dusit Medical Services PLC, said "BDMS is committed to three core concepts: Value, Quality and Priority is You. Through this game changing collaboration with Prudential, we are demonstrating this commitment to providing immediate and cost-effective access for patients outside Thailand requiring life-saving cancer treatment at a leading cancer program in Asia Pacific. Bangkok Cancer Hospital Wattanosoth achieves some of the best five-year breast cancer survival rates in the world equivalent to or even surpassing those at providers in the USA or Western Europe." ### [1] Accommodation expenses includes inpatient treatment in the hospital and a capped number of nights' hotel accommodation for staying at a designated hotel while undergoing outpatient radiation and chemotherapy treatment and investigation after chemotherapy [2] Cancer Preparedness in Asia-Pacific, Economist Intelligence Unit [3] Disparities in access to cancer diagnostics in ASEAN member countries, The Lancet * BDMS reserves the right to exclude customers that it deems to be clinically inappropriate for the package, including those suffering from stage 4 breast cancer
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CORE Publishes Resource on Ectatic Corneal Diseases
As ectatic corneal diseases—such as keratoconus—pose significant challenges to vision and quality of life, the Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) has dedicated Issue 72 of Contact Lens Update to better understanding the underlying causes and advancements in treatment methods for its successful management. The bi-monthly publication is available at no charge by visiting ContactLensUpdate.com. “With a multidisciplinary approach that includes early diagnosis, monitoring, patient education, and advancements in contact lenses and surgeries, we can offer better visual outcomes and significantly improve the quality of life for patients affected by ectatic corneal diseases,” said Daddi Fadel, DOptom, FSLS, FBCLA, FAAO, FIACLE, a clinical scientist at CORE. “Prompt diagnosis and regular monitoring are essential for successful outcomes with corneal crosslinking in halting the progression of keratoconus. Additionally, educating patients about the significance of avoiding eye rubbing is crucial for preventing and managing the disease effectively.” Advancements in managing ectatic corneal diseases offer a variety of tailored contact lens options. Personalized fitting, including scleral lenses, is crucial for optimal outcomes by improving vision and addressing high-order aberrations associated with these conditions. As our understanding of ectatic corneal diseases continues to evolve, it is vital for eye care practitioners to stay updated with the latest developments and provide personalized solutions for the best possible care of patients with these complex conditions. Fadel, a pioneer of modern lens designs, editor-in-chief of the Journal of Contact Lens Research & Science, and author of several peer-reviewed articles and books, writes the issue’s opening editorial. She presents a comprehensive review of ectatic diseases, providing a detailed summary of the current understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of ectatic diseases, including therapeutic contact lenses and surgical approaches. The editorial provides an up-to-date overview of the field, making it a valuable resource for clinicians and researchers involved in the management of ectatic diseases. Melissa Barnett, director of optometry at the University of California, Davis, an internationally recognized expert in specialty and scleral lenses, dry eye disease, keratoconus, and presbyopia, provides the feature article that delves into the management of keratoconus through contact lenses, highlighting the significance of corneal topography and imaging techniques in optimizing lens fitting. The feature article provides valuable perspectives on current approaches and strategies for effectively managing keratoconus with contact lens interventions. Karen Carrasquillo, senior vice president of clinical and professional affairs at BostonSight, adjunct clinical professor at the New England College of Optometry and at the School of Optometry, MCPHS University, shares her expertise in the form of a clinical insight. This comprehensive case report highlights key considerations in managing keratoconus patients, emphasizing the importance of addressing both mechanical and optical aspects of the lens fit. Proper weight distribution, minimizing suction, and optimizing visual quality with customized optics are crucial factors for effective treatment. The conference highlight is shared by Christine Sindt, professor of clinical ophthalmology and director of the Contact Lens Service at the University of Iowa Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences. This poster compared different methods of measuring higher-order aberrations (HOAs) on scleral lenses and their impact on fitting and functionality, showing that both high-resolution aberrometer (HRA) and low-resolution aberrometer (LRA) improved HOAs measurements. The wavefront lens based on HRA measurements corrected 50% more HOAs compared to that based on the LRA measurements. 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.
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Contact Lens Innovation Shines at 2023 PRSA Silver Anvil Awards
Initiatives from CooperVision and the Contact Lens Institute, developed in conjunction with McDougall Communications, have been recognized as among the world’s best public relations programs. Both organizations were honored at the Public Relations Society of America 2023 Anvils Award gala in Manhattan late last week. CooperVision’s U.S. launch of its MyDay Multifocal contact lens won two Silver Anvils, in the Marketing / Business-to-Business and Integrated Communications / Business-to-Business categories. With a unique design to address the vision challenge called presbyopia as people age into their 40s, the lens was positioned as a game changer for eye care professionals across the country. McDougall partnered with creative shop Truth Collective on the program. Other category finalists included Honeywell and DHL Supply Chain. The Contact Lens Institute’s See Tomorrow program won two Silver Anvil Awards of Excellence, in the Integrated Communications / Associations-Nonprofits and Content Marketing / Associations-Government-Nonprofits categories. Through a custom consumer research series, the group was instrumental in helping the eye care community identify opportunities to reinvigorate their practices and patient trust as the pandemic subsided. Other category finalists included the Washington State Department of Health and Partnership for the Presidio. In recent years, McDougall Communications-led programs have won multiple Anvil honors. In addition to achieving this high-profile recognition for CooperVision and the Contact Lens Institute, the agency has done the same with the Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) and the National Warplane Museum. “Congratulations to all of this year’s Anvil winners, who have demonstrated the power of public relations. At the center of every great program are incredibly smart people—our agency team, clients, partners and others coming together to shape our respective professions,” said Mike McDougall, APR, Fellow PRSA, FAAO. “It takes a bit of bravery to step outside what’s been done before, yet that’s a constant in our strategies, pinpoint execution, and the corresponding results. It also happens to be energizing and fun—important parts of the experience.” Since 1944, the Silver Anvil Awards have been presented to organizations that successfully address challenging issues with exemplary professional skill, creativity, and resourcefulness. They represent the benchmark of exceptional performance, with a stringent peer judging process and candidates from around the world. A total of 38 Silver Anvil Awards and 34 Silver Anvil Awards of Excellence were presented during the evening. McDougall Communications (mcdougallpr.com), founded in 2011, assists clients across the Americas, Europe and Asia-Pacific to meet their business objectives through a range of communications services, including strategic planning, media and influencer relations, reputation and crisis counsel, and social media management. It is the most senior standalone public relations and reputation management firm in Upstate New York and its work regularly shapes global communications advancements.