Clinical investigation of soft contact lenses in children
This study is investigating new soft contact lenses for children aged 8 to 15 years old. It's for those who are short-sighted (have myopia) and already wear contact lenses. Short-sightedness is becoming more common in young people and can lead to eye health problems later in life. This research aims to test how well special disposable contact lenses work in the short term to help manage short-sightedness compared to standard lenses. Taking part involves one visit to the University of Manchester, lasting about 2.5 hours. You'll try on two different types of lenses, have your vision checked, and give feedback. This study wants to find ways to reduce the impact of short-sightedness and keep young eyes healthier.
At a glance
What is this study about?
You might have noticed more and more young people needing glasses or contact lenses for short-sightedness, also known as myopia. This is a common eye condition where distant objects look blurry. Over the past 20 years, the number of children and teenagers with short-sightedness has grown quickly, and doctors are concerned because people with short-sighted eyes have a higher chance of developing more serious eye conditions later in life.
Because of these concerns, scientists and doctors are looking for ways to slow down or even stop short-sightedness from getting worse. One promising method involves using specially designed contact lenses. This study focuses on a new type of soft, disposable contact lens from CooperVision, which is hoped to help control short-sightedness in children.
The main goal of this particular study is to compare how well these new contact lenses perform in the short term against a standard contact lens. By doing this, researchers hope to understand if these special lenses could be a good way to help manage short-sightedness in children and potentially protect their eye health for the future. The study is run out of the University of Manchester, UK.
Key takeaways
- This study is for children aged 8-15 who are short-sighted.
- It tests special contact lenses designed to manage short-sightedness.
- You must already be an experienced soft contact lens wearer.
- It involves one visit (about 2.5 hours) at the University of Manchester.
- Potential benefits include trying new lenses for myopia control; very low risk of eye infection.
- The study is funded by CooperVision International Limited.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for children aged between 8 and 15 years old. To take part, you must already wear soft contact lenses and be able to put them in and take them out by yourself.
Your parent or guardian needs to understand what the study involves and agree for you to take part by signing a consent form. You also need to understand the study for your age and agree to take part.
Children cannot join if they've used special contact lenses to control short-sightedness before, or have certain eye infections or medical conditions that make wearing contact lenses unsafe. You also can't take part if you've used hard contact lenses (like for orthokeratology) in the last three months, or taken part in another contact lens study in the last month.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you between 8 and 15 years old?
- Do you currently wear soft contact lenses regularly?
- Are you able to put in and take out your soft contact lenses by yourself?
- Has your parent or guardian agreed for you to consider taking part?
- Have you NOT used hard or gas permeable contact lenses (like for Ortho-K) in the last three months?
- Have you NOT had an eye infection or a serious eye condition recently?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you'll need to attend a single visit at the University of Manchester. This visit is expected to last about 2.5 hours. On the day of your visit, please wear your glasses to the appointment – don't wear your usual contact lenses.
During your visit, you and your parent or guardian will first read and sign some forms to show you understand and agree to take part. Then, the researchers will ask some questions about your health, your eyes, and your history with contact lenses. You'll try on two different types of contact lenses one after another. For each type, the researchers will check how well the lenses fit and how clearly you can see with them. You'll also be asked for your feedback on how they feel. Towards the end, the lenses will be removed, and the researchers will check for any reactions before you leave the study.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Eurolens ResearchCity onlyManchester, England
Common questions
What is myopia?
Myopia is the medical term for short-sightedness, meaning faraway objects look blurry without glasses or contact lenses.
How long will I be in the study?
You'll only need to attend one visit at the University of Manchester, which will last about 2.5 hours.
Will I wear the contact lenses home?
No, the study involves trying on lenses during your visit, but they will be removed before you leave.
Do I need to pay to join?
No, participation in the study is free of charge.
Can I still wear my regular glasses?
Yes, you should wear your regular glasses to the study visit, as you won't be wearing your usual contact lenses that day.
How to find out more
Jose Vega
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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