Objective:
To document global trends in contact lens prescribing over 25 years, emphasizing the significance of these trends for practitioners and the industry.
Key Findings:
- Average age at fitting was 34.7 years, with older patients for rigid lenses and refits, indicating a demographic shift.
- Soft lenses accounted for 88% of fits; daily disposables were the most common type at 44%, highlighting a preference for convenience.
- Silicone hydrogel materials were the most prescribed soft lens type at 78%, reflecting advancements in lens technology.
- Multifocal lenses accounted for 17% of all soft lens fits, with a notable increase in prescribing rates, suggesting growing acceptance among practitioners.
Interpretation:
The data indicate a shift towards older patients and increased use of daily disposable and silicone hydrogel lenses, reflecting evolving preferences and practices in contact lens fitting, which may enhance patient satisfaction.
Limitations:
- Data from 5 markets were excluded due to low fit numbers, which may skew the overall trends and limit the generalizability of the findings.
Conclusion:
The report highlights significant trends in contact lens prescribing, particularly the growing popularity of daily disposables and silicone hydrogels, indicating opportunities for product development in the presbyopic segment and potential areas for innovation.
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