Research on the Current Status of Contact Lenses in Korea

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to present points of improvement data in developing a public educational approach for the correct understanding and use of contact lenses with a focus on the actual condition of wearing contact lenses, side effects and problem of circulation. METHODS: The questionnaires were distributed to contact lens wearers of 175 local clinics, 75 universities and general hospitals and 202 opticians were interviewed. RESULTS: This survey showed that many respondents had incorrect knowledge about contact lenses (purchase, prescription, complication, method of contact lens use), including persons who are not optometrists handling contact lenses. CONCLUSIONS: Nationwide pre-education is necessary for the correct understanding and purchase, prescription, and side effects of contact lenses, as well as to prohibit opticians from illegally prescribing the lenses; ophthalmologists should prescribe all contact lenses for proper vision correction.