Awareness and Compliance in Contact Lens Wearers: Case Study

Abstract

Purpose: To assess the contact lens compliance rate by using a self-administrated validated questionnaire, the level of awareness, compliance & detectable behavioral changes, patterns or trends in contact lens users. Methods: A questionnaire ,Cross sectional prospective study to understand the compliance in contact lens wearers, the questionnaires were distributed randomly among the users at various clinical & optical outlets. Based on various studies, and taking into account time constraints the sample size of 40 was taken. The mean age of 24 years was taken without any ocular pathology and systemic disease affecting the ocular health. Result: The majority of 87% of the subjects studied, preferred the monthly modality and 13 % preferred conventional yearly replacement lenses. Considering average duration of wear 64% of the subjects showed non- compliance and prolonged their wearing schedules beyond 8 hours. 38% of the contact lens users were not taking optimum care of the lens cases. A majority of 50% of the subjects rated better cosmetic appearance the most important factor, while 25% of them rated cosmetic & better vision equally important. 68% knew the availability of extended wear contact lenses that can be worn during sleep. Optical outlets are the places where the patient is more motivated for soft contact lens. Conclusion: Cost and convenience are two factors that must be considered when educating patients about proper lens care regimens. In addition, compliance is more likely if the patient is satisfied with the medical visit.