Assessment of the Relationship of Soft Contact Lens Fit and Power (Fit & Lens pOwer Soft lenSes)
This study is investigating whether slightly different strengths of soft contact lenses can still provide good vision and a comfortable fit. Many people wear daily disposable soft lenses, and this research focuses on those types of lenses. The main goal is to understand if contact lenses that are very close to, but not exactly, your prescription (within a certain range) could be a good temporary option when your precise strength isn't available. This could make it more convenient for you to get your lenses quickly and help eye care professionals manage their stock better. Currently, there isn't much research on how modern contact lenses with slightly different strengths compare in terms of how well they fit.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study aims to understand how much the strength (or 'power') of a soft contact lens affects how well you see and how comfortably it sits on your eye. We're particularly interested in modern daily disposable soft lenses, which are very popular in the UK. The research wants to find out if lenses that are close to your usual prescription, but not an exact match (for example, if they are slightly stronger or weaker), could still be a good option.
Currently, if your exact lens strength isn't in stock, you might have to wait for new lenses to be ordered, meaning another trip to the optician. By understanding if these 'close-enough' lenses fit and feel the same, this study hopes to make the process more convenient for everyone. This could mean you get your lenses faster, and eye care professionals can use the lenses they already have on hand more efficiently.
There isn't much published research about how these slightly different lens strengths affect things like comfort and how well the lens sits on the eye with today's contact lens designs. This study will gather important information to help eye care professionals make the best decisions for their patients.
Key takeaways
- This study evaluates how contact lens strength affects fit and vision.
- It could help you get contact lenses faster in the future.
- Participation involves two visits at the Aston University Eye Clinic.
- You will wear different strengths of soft contact lenses during the study.
- Your comfort and vision will be carefully checked throughout.
Who may be eligible?
To be part of this study, you need to be a healthy person between 18 and 60 years old. Your eyesight should be good enough to be corrected to at least the standard for driving (6/12 or 20/40) in each eye. It’s also important that you can understand information and give your consent in English.
However, you won't be able to join if you have any active eye infections or inflammation, or a history of serious health or eye conditions. If you've had eye surgery in the past, or used certain medicines that affect your eyes in the last three months, you won't be eligible. Also, if you're already taking part in another study that might affect the results of this one, or if there's any other reason why contact lenses might not normally be suitable for you, you cannot participate.
- Are you between 18 and 60 years old?
- Is your vision correctable to at least 6/12 (similar to driving standard) in each eye?
- Can you understand and give consent in English?
- Do you have any active eye infections or serious medical eye conditions?
- Are you currently in another medical research study?
This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you will have two visits to the Aston University Eye Clinic. During your first visit, we will record some basic information like your age, gender, and eye history to check if you are suitable for the study. You will also fill out a questionnaire about any dry eye symptoms you might experience.
At both visits, contact lenses will be placed on your eyes. The strength of these lenses will be different (chosen randomly) between your two visits. We will then check how comfortable the lenses feel using both a paper form and a numbered rating. Your vision will also be checked, both with special equipment and in the usual way your eye doctor does it. We’ll also video record how the contact lens sits on your eye, looking at how it moves and covers your eye.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- School of Optometry, Aston Eye ClinicBirmingham, United Kingdom
Common questions
What kind of contact lenses will I be wearing?
You will be wearing modern daily disposable soft contact lenses provided by CooperVision. These are widely used in the UK.
How many visits will I need to make?
You will need to attend two visits at and the Aston University Eye Clinic.
Will I know my exact contact lens prescription during the study?
The study uses lenses that may not be your exact prescription (though they will be close) to see how they perform.
Is there any cost involved to participate?
No, there is no cost for taking part in this research study.
Can I stop participating if I change my mind?
Yes, you can withdraw from the study at any time without needing to give a reason, and it won't affect your eye care.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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