Where do you get your contact lenses? A recent study from the U.S. Food & Drug Administration’s (FDA’s) Forensic Chemistry Center, published in the Journal of Forensic Sciences, found many counterfeit or unapproved contact lenses were contaminated with microbes frequently found in spoiled food and hospital waste water!
“Of the 29 different brands of counterfeit contact lenses, 48 percent had at least one sample test positive for microbial contamination. Beyond P. aeruginosa and B. cereus, other microorganisms identified are ones commonly associated with serious eye infections and even vision loss, including microbial keratitis and bacterial endophthalmitis,” according to an article in the American Optometric Association.
The fact is, there have been numerous reports by those who have obtained their contact lenses from improper sources, resulting in infections and even vision loss. This also includes cosmetic and decorative contacts. “Contact lenses are medical devices worn on living tissue; therefore, it is extremely important that they are purchased with a valid prescription,” notes Edward Bennett, O.D., AOA Contact Lens and Cornea Section (CLCS) chair and University of Missouri-St. Louis College of Optometry Assistant Dean.
Around 40 million Americans wear contact lenses. While they are an effective and safe way to correct vision, improper care and wear can lead to serious infections and loss of vision. “We know that if the lens is contaminated and there is a break in the corneal epithelium, the risk of eye infection is very real,” Dr. Bennett writes. “This study provides supporting evidence as to why this serious, vision-threatening condition can occur.”
It is vital not only to have contact lenses properly fitted by an eye doctor, but to also have follow up care. Complications from improperly fitted contacts can have serious consequences.
The American Optometric Association warns of illegal contacts, “Throughout October, AOA is calling out online vendors, brick-and-mortar-shops and other retailers suspected of sidestepping consumer protections put in place by the Fairness to Contact Lens Consumers Act (FCLCA) and Contact Lens Rule. This ’31 in 31′ campaign confronts as many vendors and informs them of the regulatory requirements related to the sale of contact lenses in the United States.”
Contact Lake Nona Eye Care to schedule your comprehensive eye exam or call us at 407-658-9990. Don’t forget to stop by our new office in the Eagle Creek Publix shopping center.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month
In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the family at Lake Nona Eye Care encourages everyone to join us in learning more about breast cancer and support those who are suffering with the disease.
Though we have made great progress in early detection, cancer treatment and finding a cure, we still have a long way to go.