This article was originally published in a sponsored newsletter.
Ten years ago, while missing doing myopia research, an opportunity arose almost serendipitously that allowed me to reconnect to previous work and reunite with my Master’s advisor—the Bifocal Lenses In Nearsighted Kids (BLINK) Study.
Beginning in 2014, the BLINK Study screened 443 children aged 7-11 across two clinical sites (the Ohio State University College of Optometry and the University of Houston College of Optometry), and 294 of these children were randomized into the BLINK Study.1 Over the last 10 years, 150 of these children were seen at the University of Houston College of Optometry where I have served as primary masked examiner in BLINK and primary examiner in BLINK 2. In the first of two columns, here is a recounting of experiences with this patient demographic over the years.
Early BLINK Observations—The Curious Child
Transitioning from adult keratoconus subjects deeply invested in solutions for visual optimization to children who lacked motivation and comprehension of why they needed this was an initial challenge. My prior interaction with children was limited to a brief rotation in optometry school, which hardly prepared me for the nuances of engaging young minds three hours into a study visit. Incorporating elements of fun and interaction was critical for efficient and precise data collection. Utilizing snacks mid-exam addressed hangriness and gave time for rapport building.
This age group has a deep level of curiosity and that proved to be an in-road to create connections with them. Taking time to demystify the equipment, measurements, and complex ideas like myopia kept subjects engaged. Explaining everything made all the difference. In fact, my own infant (the “BLINK baby”) was the perfect visual aid to explain concepts of visual development and why myopia happens. Connecting through curiosity was key at this age!
Mid BLINK Observations—The Knowledgeable Tween/Teen
As time moved forward and kids entered junior high/high school, interactions transformed. With each visit, subjects began to increasingly take the lead, confidently telling what the instruments do, their knowledge of the study, steps to properly clean and store a contact lens, and the significance of myopia management. This knowledge translated into improved exam efficiency.
This group showed a growing sense of pride and responsibility in the study. Both participants and parents exhibited a deep commitment, underscored by the extremely high retention rate in the BLINK study.1
At one point, my endodontist recognized me as his child’s “BLINK Doctor,” which translated into passionate advocacy by him on the importance of involving children in research studies and the critical role of myopia management. He loved that his child had stated his intentions for optometry over dentistry. This age range is exciting to work with as passion and purpose start to take root.
Next month, this column will cover the further maturing of participants.
1. Walline JJ, Walker MK, Mutti DO, et al; BLINK Study Group. Effect of High Add Power, Medium Add Power, or Single-Vision Contact Lenses on Myopia Progression in Children: The BLINK Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA. 2020 Aug 11;324:571-580.
Click here to read the second part of this arcticle.
