Contact lenses are the most widely used vision correction device in the United States. There are approximately 45 million contact lens wearers nationwide and as of 2023, the U.S. contact lenses market was valued at US$ 2.96 billion. It is projected to grow to up to US$ 4.47 billion by 2032, according to Renub Research.
For this reason, the nonprofit organization Prevent Blindness declared October as Contact Lens Safety Month. This month-long event aims to raise awareness about the importance of proper contact lens use and care to prevent eye infections and other vision-related problems.
Focus Areas of Contact Lens Safety Month
Prevent Blindness is a U.S.-based nonprofit organization that has been dedicated to protecting vision and promoting eye health since its founding in 1908. The organization’s mission is to make public health programs, advocacy, and educational resources accessible to the masses.
Here’s a detailed look at the focus areas of the contact lens safety month:
Proper Use Education
The cornerstone of Contact Lens Safety Month is raising awareness about the correct use of contact lenses, which are classified as medical devices. This includes both prescription lenses (used for vision correction) and cosmetic lenses (for aesthetic purposes).
The FDA, American Academy of Ophthalmology, and Prevent Blindness stress that even decorative lenses require proper handling and cleaning and that they should never be used without a prescription.
Hygiene and Cleaning Practices
Poor hygiene is a significant contributor to contact lens-related infections. During the campaign, users are reminded to always wash their hands before handling lenses and to clean and disinfect lenses according to professional guidelines. Contact lens cases should also be cleaned regularly to avoid contamination.
Risks of Over-the-Counter and Cosmetic Lenses
Non-prescription contact lenses, often sold online or in novelty stores, are more risky because they are not fitted by professionals. These products can cause serious eye damage if used improperly. The FDA classifies such sales as illegal, and buyers are encouraged to avoid these risky, unregulated lenses.
Contact Lens Safety Month emphasizes these risks especially during Halloween when cosmetic lenses become popular.
Preventing Serious Eye Infections
One of the critical messages of the campaign is the prevention of serious eye infections, such as Acanthamoeba keratitis. This infection is often caused by improper contact with water—such as wearing lenses while swimming or exposing them to tap water. Such infections can lead to severe damage, and in extreme cases, vision loss or the need for corneal transplants.
Resources and Outreach
Finally, Prevent Blindness also offers a plethora of resources including fact sheets, social media materials, and expert videos on eye health. These resources are designed to make it easier for healthcare providers, schools, and individuals to educate others about safe contact lens use.
The 5 Best Contact Lens Care Practices As Of 2024
For contact lens wearers, maintaining proper eye care matters. Here are some of the latest and best eye care tips from top sources like the CDC, American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), and Prevent Blindness:
- Wash Hands Thoroughly Before Handling Lenses – Always wash your hands with soap and water before touching your contact lenses. Dry your hands with a lint-free towel to avoid getting debris on your lenses
- Proper Lens Cleaning and Disinfection – Clean your lenses using the recommended cleaning solution provided by your eye doctor. Never use water, saliva, or homemade solutions, as these can introduce harmful bacteria and microorganisms like Acanthamoeba. Replace the cleaning solution in the contact lens case each time you store your lenses.
- Replace Your Lens Case Regularly – Even with proper cleaning, contact lens cases can become contaminated. The CDC recommends replacing your lens case every three months and cleaning it daily with fresh solution. Be sure to leave it open and dry between uses to avoid microbial buildup.
- Avoid Sleeping in Lenses Unless Prescribed – Wearing lenses overnight significantly increases the risk of eye infections. Unless your lenses are monthly replacement contact lens designed for overnight wear, remove them before going to sleep.
- Follow the Replacement Schedule – Do not extend the wear of your lenses beyond their recommended use (daily, bi-weekly, or monthly). Wearing lenses longer than advised can lead to protein buildup, discomfort, and an increased risk of infections.
Wrapping Up
Contact Lens Safety Month highlights the importance of proper contact lens care to prevent infections, severe vision loss, or worse, blindness. Despite millions of people using contact lenses, many are stil unaware of the risks associated with poor hygiene, sleeping in lenses, or using non-prescription lenses.
The Contact Lens Safety month promotes critical education on cleaning practices, handling tips, and recognizing early signs of infections. However, it’s important to remember that contact lens safety should not be confined to October—it should be a daily habit year-round to ensure long-term eye health and vision protection. So, make sure to get regular eye exams and purchase contact lenses from only reputable sources.
