Clinical Report: GSLS 2026 Highlights and Myopia Management Advances
Overview
The 2026 Global Specialty Lens Symposium (GSLS) showcased advancements in specialty lenses and myopia management strategies. Key discussions included the efficacy of low-dose atropine and orthokeratology in controlling myopia progression in children.
Background
The management of myopia is critical due to its increasing prevalence and potential long-term visual impairment. Recent consensus guidelines emphasize proactive, evidence-based approaches, including pharmacologic and optical interventions. The GSLS serves as a platform for sharing the latest research and clinical practices in specialty lenses and myopia management.
Data Highlights
No numerical data available in the provided source material.
Key Findings
- The FDA authorized Essilor Stellest spectacle lenses for myopia control in children aged 6-12.
- A randomized trial found 0.04% atropine more effective than 0.01% atropine or OK monotherapy for myopia control.
- Combination therapy with orthokeratology and 0.01% atropine shows incremental reduction in axial elongation.
- Sequential dosing of atropine (0.01%→0.025%→0.05%) can enhance treatment efficacy.
- Evidence supports the use of specialty lenses for irregular corneas and ocular surface disease.
Clinical Implications
Clinicians should consider integrating low-dose atropine and orthokeratology into myopia management strategies for pediatric patients. The recent FDA approval of new spectacle lenses expands treatment options and aligns with current evidence-based guidelines.
Conclusion
The GSLS 2026 highlighted significant advancements in specialty lenses and myopia management, reinforcing the importance of evidence-based approaches in clinical practice.
References
- Contact Lens Spectrum, 2026 -- Inside the Action
- Contact Lens Spectrum, 2026 -- At the Show
- Contact Lens Spectrum, 2025 -- GSLS Course Traces the Evolution of Scleral Lenses from 2010 to the Present
- IMI—2025 Digest - PMC
- Orthokeratology, 0.04% Atropine, and 0.01% Atropine for Myopia Control: A Randomized Clinical Trial | Trials | JAMA Ophthalmology | JAMA Network
- contact lens spectrum — Papers and Posters Highlighted During GSLS Sessions
- IMI—2025 Digest - PMC
- Orthokeratology, 0.04% Atropine, and 0.01% Atropine for Myopia Control: A Randomized Clinical Trial | Trials | JAMA Ophthalmology | JAMA Network
- Contact lenses for visual rehabilitation in post-keratoplasty eyes: A systematic review - ScienceDirect
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