Impact of refractive error on quality of life: a qualitative study

Understanding Patient Experiences Before and After Monovision LASIK for Hyperopia and Presbyopia: A Qualitative Approach

Purpose

This study aimed to explore the social and emotional perceptions of individuals with presbyopia, focusing on the impact of age-related near-vision loss before and after monovision LASIK surgery.

Patients and Methods

This qualitative study employed semi-structured interviews with individuals diagnosed with presbyopia, along with associated hyperopia and/or astigmatism, and moderate refractive errors suitable for monovision LASIK. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using ATLAS.ti software (version 9.1.1) to identify codes, subthemes, and overarching themes. A thematic content analysis was conducted, with data collection concluding when saturation was reached. A total of 17 participants (9 women, 8 men), aged 48-60 years, were interviewed through 8 face-to-face and 9 videoconferencing sessions.

Results

Presbyopia emerged as a significant milestone with emotional and psychological implications, often linked to the perception of aging, such as concerns about diminished independence and appearance. Motivations for surgery included aesthetics, discomfort with glasses, hygiene concerns, and the desire for greater independence. Fear of the procedure was identified as a key barrier, though it was mitigated by social support. Despite initial adaptation challenges, most participants reported favorable outcomes, citing improved self-esteem and a sense of freedom.

Conclusion

For carefully selected individuals, monovision LASIK can be an effective strategy for addressing the challenges of presbyopia, particularly with respect to the psychological and social dimensions of aging.

Visual impairment and associated factors in adults from three suburban communities in Nampula, Mozambique

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Scientific evidence on the burden of visual impairment, its causes, and associated factors are essential to monitor progress in eye health, identify priorities and develop strategies and policies that meet the needs of the population, towards the eradication of preventable blindness.

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of visual impairment, its causes and associated factors in adults living in suburban communities in Nampula.

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional study conducted from November 2019 to February 2020. Eye examinations were performed on adults aged ≥18 years covered by the Lúrio University program, 'one student, one family'. The odds ratio (OR) and adjusted odds ratio (aOR) were calculated to study the association between the dependent variable (presenting visual impairment) and independent variables (gender, age, school level, residence, family income and systemic diseases), with a 95% confidence interval.

RESULTS

Distance and near presenting visual impairment had a prevalence of 16.3% and 21.1%, respectively, and were statistically associated with the age groups between 45-65 (OR:4.9) and >65 years (OR: 29.1), illiterate (OR:13.8), primary (OR:4.8) and secondary (aOR:37.5) school level, farmer (OR:32.8) and retired (OR:14.3) occupation, and presence of systemic diseases (OR :3.3). The main causes of presenting visual impairment were uncorrected refractive error and cataract.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of presenting visual impairment is relatively high, given the enormous effort undertaken within the framework of VISION 2020: The Right to Sight global initiative. There is a need to develop intervention plans targeted at the highest risk groups, with a view to achieving the 'one student, one family' program goals with respect to eye health.

The Prevalence of Refractive Errors in Indian School Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

PURPOSE

Refractive errors (REs) are a significant cause of vision impairment and the second leading cause of blindness worldwide. Myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism are the most prevalent forms. In developing regions, including India, the prevalence and impact of REs, particularly among school-aged children, is profound, affecting their academic performance and overall quality of life.

METHODS

This review aimed to consolidate data from studies published post-2018 to provide updated prevalence estimates of REs among Indian school children. Following the PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive literature search was conducted in May 2024 across four databases: Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and Embase. Inclusion criteria focused on cross-sectional studies from India, reporting the prevalence of REs among school-aged children.

RESULTS

Out of 1434 studies, 43 met the inclusion criteria. The overall pooled prevalence of REs was 11% (95% CI: 0.08-0.15). The subgroup analysis showed a slight decline in prevalence post-COVID-19, from 12% to 11%. Prevalence was higher in cycloplegic studies at 12%, compared to 10% in non-cycloplegic. Myopia was the most prevalent RE at 8%, with astigmatism at 3% and hyperopia at 1%. No significant gender differences were found. The meta-regression does not indicate a statistically significant relation between the year of publication and the prevalence of RE.

CONCLUSION

REs, particularly myopia, pose a significant burden among Indian schoolchildren. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the overall prevalence of REs has remained stable. These findings emphasize the need for continued vision screening programs and targeted interventions to reduce the prevalence of uncorrected refractive errors.

Development and Initial Validation of the MCL-PRO-CAT: A computerized adaptive test designed to measure multifocal contact lens performance from the patient's perspective

PURPOSE

To create a valid and reliable computer-adaptive testing (CAT) tool for assessing Multifocal Contact Lens (MCL) performance in presbyopic individuals, ensuring high precision. The self-administered tool will initially be accessible online in Spanish.

METHODS

Five steps were followed for the correct development of the instruments: item bank development, item refinement phase, item response theory calibration of the refined item bank, CAT simulations and design, and an initial validation study. A total of 1163 presbyopic patients were involved in the over-all study. Convergent validity was assessed by comparing results to the CLDQ-8 questionnaire, and repeatability assessment was performed two weeks after the initial completion.

RESULTS

The final item bank consisted of 108 items assessing various relevant domains for MCL performance evaluation. The calibration study showed a person separation index of 4.69 and a reliability of 0.96 along with a measurement precision of 0.27. The final CAT distinguished between 16 levels of MCL performance by presenting an average of 10.61  ± 1.00 items per patient, with an average completion time of 3:04 ± 1:24 min. Signs of convergent validity showed a correlation of 0.73 and repeatability was assessed showing an intraclass Correlation Coefficient of 0.881 with a 95% Confidence Interval 0,815-0,924, and Limits of Agreement of  ± 1.07.

CONCLUSION

The MCL-PRO-CAT is a groundbreaking tool for evaluating MCL performance in presbyopic individuals. With automated scoring and fewer items, it was feasible, valid, and precise, enhancing clinical practicality.

Postoperative Compliance With Follow-Up Among Photorefractive Keratectomy Patients in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Introduction Refractive error is a condition that results when the eye fails to concentrate light rays from objects onto the retinal plane, resulting in blurry images. And it accounts for about 47% of all cases of vision impairment in high-income and developed countries. Methods This retrospective observational study was conducted among patients who underwent photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) at Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU) Medical Center in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Data were collected from patients aged 18 years or older with a stable refractive error and normal corneal topography. Data were tabulated in Microsoft Excel (Microsoft Corp., Redmond, WA, USA) and were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 26 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). Results A total of two hundred patients who underwent PRK were analyzed (male 44.5% {89} vs female 55.5% {111}). The most common age group was 18 to 30 years (81.5%, 163). The recommended four follow-ups post photorefractive keratectomy were recorded, and 100% (200) were in compliance with the first follow-up. In univariate analysis, increasing age and being an employee were the factors influencing compliance to follow-up. However, in multivariate regression analysis, being employed was the only significant independent predictor associated with follow-up compliance. Being not informed and busy schedules were recognized as the most important barriers to follow-up compliance. Conclusion Compliance with follow-up visits post-PRK was less than desired. However, employed patients may exhibit a better attitude toward follow-up visits than the rest. Hence, more efforts are required to educate patients about the importance of follow-ups, which may enhance their follow-up compliance.

Combination Low-Dose Pilocarpine/Diclofenac Sodium and Pilocarpine Alone for Presbyopia: Results of a Randomized Phase 2b Clinical Trial

Purpose

To evaluate the efficacy of 0.2% and 0.4% pilocarpine HCl (CSF-1) for the treatment of presbyopia and to determine the contributions of pilocarpine HCl and diclofenac sodium on the efficacy of fixed-dose combination (FDC) formulations.

Patients and Methods

This was a Phase 2b, multicenter, randomized, double-masked, parallel-group clinical trial. Adults (45-64 years) with presbyopia were randomized 1:1:1 to 3 arms (Pilo arm: pilocarpine HCl; Pilo-Diclo FDC arm: pilocarpine HCl with 0.006% diclofenac sodium; Control arm: 0.006% diclofenac sodium). Participants in Pilo and Pilo-Diclo FDC arms received 0.2% pilocarpine HCl (0.2% Pilo or 0.2% Pilo FDC, respectively) from days 1-8, and 0.4% pilocarpine HCl (CSF-1 or CSF-1-FDC, respectively) from days 8-15. Primary efficacy endpoint was achievement of ≥3-line (15-letter) gain in mesopic, monocular distance-corrected near visual acuity (DCNVA) at 40 cm, 1 hour post-treatment of the study eye on days 8 and 15 in the per protocol (PP) population. Safety endpoints were assessed.

Results

One hundred and sixty-six participants were randomized (intent-to-treat, N = 166; PP, n = 160). There were no statistical differences between 0.2% Pilo or 0.2% Pilo FDC versus Control at 1 hour post-treatment on day 8. On day 15, 43.1% and 46.9% of participants receiving CSF-1-FDC (0.4% Pilo FDC) or CSF-1 (0.4% Pilo), respectively, achieved ≥3-line gain at 1 hour post-treatment in mesopic DCNVA compared with 16.1% of Control group in the PP population, meeting the primary endpoint (P = 0.0015 and P = 0.0002, respectively). All formulations were well tolerated.

Conclusion

CSF-1 demonstrated significant improvements in mesopic DCNVA and favorable safety. Pilocarpine HCl as a single active ingredient, at the concentration of 0.4% (CSF-1), provided a transient, therapeutic effect for presbyopia.

Ophthalmic quality of life in the adult Danish population: an epidemiological study

BACKGROUND

Ophthalmic quality of life (OQoL) has been investigated in selected parts of general populations and in patients with ocular disease, but OQoL in unselected general populations has not been studied in detail. The present study reports OQoL obtained from a representative sample of the adult Danish population 2020-2022.

METHODS

The FORSYN study invited 10 350 citizen representatives for the adult Danish population for a non-mydriatic eye examination and answer the National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire with 39 items in the validated Danish translation. The results from the 3384 (32.7%) persons who participated in the study were weighted on the basis of relevant socio-economic factors, and data were projected to represent the total population. Binocular visual acuity was below 0.1 corresponding to legal blindness in 0.22% of this population.

RESULTS

OQoL was positively correlated with binocular visual acuity up to better than 93 ETDRS letters, negatively correlated with age for persons younger than 60 years of age and again positively correlated with age for persons older than 60 years. OQoL was negatively correlated with increasing ametropia and refractive error above 1 dioptre and encompassed more OQoL parameters for hyperopic than for myopic persons.

CONCLUSIONS

The study underlines the benefits of improving visual acuity even within the normal range and of adjusting uncorrected refraction errors in the general population. OQoL is positively correlated with age in older persons independently of visual acuity, sex, refractive power and previous cataract surgery.

Access to eye care among adults from an underserved community in Aotearoa New Zealand

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

In all countries, there are population groups that are underserved by eye health services. By exploring access to eye care for these communities, optometrists and other eye care providers can promote equitable access to quality eye care, including strengthening patient relationships, and championing inclusive, people-centred services.

BACKGROUND

New Zealand has very few policies to enable access to primary eye health services. The aim of this study was to explore the barriers and facilitators to accessing eye health services among adults from an underserved community in Auckland.

METHODS

A qualitative study was conducted using in-depth interviews, drawing on the domains of a widely accepted patient-centred framework for health care access. Twenty-five adults with vision impairment were recruited from a community-based eye clinic in a suburb with high area-level deprivation. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, coded, and analysed using thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Twenty-five participants were interviewed, aged between 47 and 71 years, of whom 13 were female. The participants included 13 Pacific people, 6 Māori, 4 New Zealand Europeans and 2 people of other ethnicities. Thematic analysis revealed five themes describing accessing eye care from a community perspective. Two major themes related to barriers were identified, financial barriers and barriers due to location of services and transport. The facilitators of access were, the ability of individuals to identify available eye health services, the provision of appropriate eye health services, and the crucial role played by whānau (family) in supporting participants to seek eye health services.

CONCLUSION

Cost is a major barrier to accessing eye health services in New Zealand. The barriers and facilitators expressed by this underserved community can inform efforts to improve eye health access in New Zealand through people-centred service designs.

Analysis of quality of life of patients with refractive errors in India

INTRODUCTION

It is important to determine the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) to devise population-based cost-effective service delivery models. The present study aimed to evaluate the HRQoL of patients with refractive errors (RE) using generic and vision-specific instruments, identify the determinants of HRQoL, and examine the validity between the quality-of-life instruments for refractive errors.

METHODS

Face-to-face interviews were conducted with 515 participants with RE using generic as well as vision-specific HRQoL measures. Mean EuroQol-five dimensions-five levels (EQ-5D-5L) utility value, National Eye Institute-Visual Function Questionnaire-25 (NEI-VFQ-25) composite score, and EuroQol-Visual analogue scale (EQ-VAS) score were computed, and determinants of quality of life were determined using generalized linear regression model. The validity between generic and disease-specific measures was ascertained using Pearson's coefficient.

RESULTS

The mean EQ-5D-5L utility score for patients with RE was estimated as 0.72 (95% CI: 0.70-0.75). The mean NEI-VFQ-25 composite score and EQ-VAS score were 71.3 (95% CI: 69.8-73), and 74.7 (95% CI: 73.4-76.1), respectively. Visual acuity, gender, and presence of co-morbidities were significantly associated with quality of life. The concurrence between the generic and vision-specific instruments was found to be low to moderate.

CONCLUSION

The findings of the study indicate the importance of the value of quality of life for patients with RE, which could be taken into account by health administrators, doctors and researchers to carry out economic evaluations, since these measures provide a basis for an evaluation more precisely the impact of RE and guide the determination of efficient ways to alleviate the burden of treatable visual impairment. More research is required to explore the potential integration of a vision component, the sixth dimension, into the EQ-5D-5L instrument, given the moderate agreement observed between the generic and specific assessment tools.

Strategies to address inequity of uncorrected refractive error in the Western Pacific: A modified Delphi process

PURPOSE

Uncorrected refractive error is the leading cause of vision impairment globally; however, little attention has been given to equity and access to services. This study aimed to identify and prioritise: (1) strategies to address inequity of access to refractive error services and (2) population groups to target with these strategies in five sub-regions within the Western Pacific.

METHODS

We invited eye care professionals to complete a two-round online prioritisation process. In round 1, panellists nominated population groups least able to access refractive error services, and strategies to improve access. Responses were summarised and presented in round 2, where panellists ranked the groups (by extent of difficulty and size) and strategies (in terms of reach, acceptability, sustainability, feasibility and equity). Groups and strategies were scored according to their rank within each sub-region.

RESULTS

Seventy five people from 17 countries completed both rounds (55% women). Regional differences were evident. Indigenous peoples were a priority group for improving access in Australasia and Southeast Asia, while East Asia identified refugees and Oceania identified rural/remote people. Across the five sub-regions, reducing out-of-pocket costs was a commonly prioritised strategy for refraction and spectacles. Australasia prioritised improving cultural safety, East Asia prioritised strengthening school eye health programmes and Oceania and Southeast Asia prioritised outreach to rural areas.

CONCLUSION

These results provide policy-makers, researchers and funders with a starting point for context-specific actions to improve access to refractive error services, particularly among underserved population groups who may be left behind in existing private sector-dominated models of care.

BCLA CLEAR Presbyopia: Epidemiology and impact

The global all-ages prevalence of epidemiologically-measured 'functional' presbyopia was estimated at 24.9% in 2015, affecting 1.8 billion people. This prevalence was projected to stabilise at 24.1% in 2030 due to increasing myopia, but to affect more people (2.1 billion) due to population dynamics. Factors affecting the prevalence of presbyopia include age, geographic location, urban versus rural location, sex, and, to a lesser extent, socioeconomic status, literacy and education, health literacy and inequality. Risk factors for early onset of presbyopia included environmental factors, nutrition, near demands, refractive error, accommodative dysfunction, medications, certain health conditions and sleep. Presbyopia was found to impact on quality-of-life, in particular quality of vision, labour force participation, work productivity and financial burden, mental health, social wellbeing and physical health. Current understanding makes it clear that presbyopia is a very common age-related condition that has significant impacts on both patient-reported outcome measures and economics. However, there are complexities in defining presbyopia for epidemiological and impact studies. Standardisation of definitions will assist future synthesis, pattern analysis and sense-making between studies.

BCLA CLEAR Presbyopia: Evaluation and diagnosis

It is important to be able to measure the range of clear focus in clinical practice to advise on presbyopia correction techniques and to optimise the correction power. Both subjective and objective techniques are necessary: subjective techniques (such as patient reported outcome questionnaires and defocus curves) assess the impact of presbyopia on a patient and how the combination of residual objective accommodation and their natural DoF work for them; objective techniques (such as autorefraction, corneal topography and lens imaging) allow the clinician to understand how well a technique is working optically and whether it is the right choice or how adjustments can be made to optimise performance. Techniques to assess visual performance and adverse effects must be carefully conducted to gain a reliable end-point, considering the target size, contrast and illumination. Objective techniques are generally more reliable, can help to explain unexpected subjective results and imaging can be a powerful communication tool with patients. A clear diagnosis, excluding factors such as binocular vision issues or digital eye strain that can also cause similar symptoms, is critical for the patient to understand and adapt to presbyopia. Some corrective options are more permanent, such as implanted inlays / intraocular lenses or laser refractive surgery, so the optics can be trialled with contact lenses in advance (including differences between the eyes) to better communicate with the patient how the optics will work for them so they can make an informed choice.

Influencing factors for pediatric eye disorders and health related quality of life: a cross-sectional study in Shanghai, China

BACKGROUND

Myopia, strabismus, and ptosis are common pediatric eye diseases, which have a negative impact on children and adolescents in terms of visual function, mental health, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Therefore, this study focused on those pediatric eye diseases by analyzing their risk factors and HRQoL for the comprehensive management of myopia, strabismus, and ptosis.

METHODS

A total of 363 participants (2-18 years old) were included in this study for risk factors analysis of myopia, strabismus, and ptosis. We collected demographic characteristics, lifestyle habits and eye care habits of these children and analyzed them by using univariable and multivariable logistic regression. In addition, we applied the Chinese version of Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory-Version 4.0 (PedsQL 4.0) to assess HRQoL in 256 children with strabismus and ptosis. Univariable and multivariable linear regression models were applied to evaluate potential influencing factors of HRQoL.

RESULTS

Of all the participants, 140 had myopia, 127 had strabismus, and 145 had ptosis. Based on the multivariable logistic regression analysis model, we found that the history of parental myopia and daily average near-distance eye usage time were risk factors for myopia, and increased body mass index (BMI) was identified as a risk factor for strabismus and ptosis. Individuals with ptosis possessed decreased HRQoL. The multivariable linear regression model suggested that daily average near-distance eye usage time, light intensity during visual tasks, and daily average sleep duration had potential influences on HRQoL.

CONCLUSION

This is the first study to assess the risk factors and HRQoL of myopia, strabismus, and ptosis together. We identified risk factors for these common pediatric eye diseases to help doctors, parents, and teachers better manage them. Our study discovered that children with eye disorders exhibit a notably diminished HRQoL. Consequently, it emphasizes the necessity for increased social attention and mental health assistance for these children.

Refractive error and vision related quality of life

BACKGROUND

To investigate and compare the vision-related quality of life (QOL) in different types of refractive error (RE).

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was performed on 200 subjects, categorized into four groups of 50 each, consisting of subjects with myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and emmetropia, the latter being the control group. The mean age of the participants was 23.88 ± 5.87 (range, 15 to 38: 110 females and 90 males). RE was defined as myopia, spherical equivalent (SE) < -0.25 diopters (D), hyperopia, SE > + 0.25 D, astigmatism, cylinder < -0.25 D, and emmetropia (-0.25 ≤ SE(D) ≤ + 0.25, cylinder ≥ -0.25). Groups are subdivided into very low magnitudes of RE (0.50 and 0.75) and significant RE (1.00 ≤). Vision-related QOL was assessed using the Persian version of the 25-item National Eye Institute Visual Functioning Questionnaire (NEI-VFQ-25). The NEI-VFQ was scored as visual function and socioemotional scales using Rasch analysis.

RESULTS

Corrected myopia, astigmatism, uncorrected myopia, and hyperopia had a lower vision-related QOL than emmetropes. (P < 0.001). Vision-related QOL in myopic subjects was lower than that in astigmatic participants. Very low myopes, who often do not use correction, had a significantly lower QOL than other groups.

CONCLUSION

Individuals with refractive errors experience a lower QOL score than those without. Notably, the adverse impact on QOL score is significantly greater in myopic cases, particularly very low myopia, compared to other refractive errors. Therefore, it is strongly recommended not to neglect managing very low myopia since it may improve participants' QOL.

Efficacy and Safety of CSF-1 (0.4% Pilocarpine Hydrochloride) in Presbyopia: Pooled Results of the NEAR Phase 3 Randomized, Clinical Trials

PURPOSE

This study was undertaken to evaluate the safety and efficacy of CSF-1 (0.4% pilocarpine hydrochloride ophthalmic solution) for use in individuals with presbyopia.

METHODS

Two Phase 3 multicenter, randomized, double-masked, vehicle-controlled, parallel-group clinical trials were conducted in 35 private ophthalmology clinics in the United States from October 2020 to February 2022. Key inclusion criteria were the following: (1) age 45-64 years, (2) distance-corrected near visual acuity (DCNVA) at 40 cm ≥0.40 and ≤0.90 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR, approximately 20/50-20/160 Snellen) in at least 1 eye, (3) manifest refraction (MR) between -4.50 and +2.00 diopter (D) sphere in each eye with ≤2.00D difference between eyes, (4) <2.00D of cylinder MR in each eye, (5) ≤0.04 logMAR (20/20-2 or better) corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) at 4 m in each eye. Key exclusion criteria were the following: (1) >0.14 logMAR (7 letters) improvement in post-vehicle treatment in monocular DCNVA in either eye at visit 1, (2) introcular pressure (IOP) <9 or >22 mm Hg, (3) average dark-adapted pupillometry <3.5 mm in either eye, (4) prior refractive surgery or intraocular lens (IOL) implantation. Participants applied CSF-1 or vehicle twice per day for 2 weeks. Efficacy and safety assessments were performed at several times on days 1, 8, and 15. Response was defined as ≥3-line gain in DCNVA without loss of ≥1-line in CDVA in the study eye under mesopic room lighting conditions. The primary efficacy endpoint was measured 1 hour post-dose 1 on day 8. Key secondary endpoints were 2 hours post-dose 1, and 1 and 2 hours post-dose 2, also on day 8. Safety endpoints were ocular and non-ocular treatment-related adverse events (TRAE), conjunctival redness, drop comfort, slit-lamp biomicroscopy, intraocular pressure, indirect fundoscopy, and CDVA at 4 m.

FINDINGS

Six hundred thirteen participants were randomized to CSF-1 (n = 309) or vehicle (n = 304). Participants were predominantly White (80.8%) and female (62.0%), with mean age (standard deviation) of 54.7 (4.8). CSF-1 met the primary and key secondary endpoints. At the primary endpoint, 40.1% of the CSF-1 group achieved response versus 19.1% of the vehicle group (P < 0.0001). The percentage of responders was significantly greater in CSF-1 compared with vehicle at all tested times. Changes from baseline in all safety endpoints were comparable between groups. Most adverse events (AEs) were mild and transient. Neither serious nor severe AEs were reported with CSF-1.

IMPLICATIONS

CSF-1, a low-dose pilocarpine ophthalmic solution, demonstrated superiority to vehicle in improving near vision in individuals with presbyopia without compromising distance vision. CSF-1 demonstrated a favorable safety profile.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov identifier: NCT04599933 (NEAR-1), NCT04599972 (NEAR-2).

Patient Perception and Self-Reported Outcomes with Presbyopia-Correcting Intraocular Lenses (PCIOLs): A Social Media Listening Study

INTRODUCTION

Presbyopia-correcting intraocular lens (PCIOL) implantation is a popular treatment option for cataract surgery patients who desire spectacle independence. This study aimed to understand patient perception and outcomes with PCIOLs by analyzing patient social media posts.

METHODS

This was a non-interventional retrospective study that used predefined search strings to identify publicly available social media data discussing patient perceptions and outcomes with seven PCIOLs (three trifocal, one multifocal with continuous range of vision, and three extended depth-of-focus [EDOF] PCIOLs). Relevant posts were searched from Reddit, YouTube, and Facebook and patient forums Patient.info, Medicine.net, Optiker-Forum, and Medizin Forum from September 2020 to October 2022 in four languages (English, German, French, and Spanish).

RESULTS

A total of 2237 posts were included, all in English, with 68% of posts identified on Patient.info. The themes most discussed by patients were quality of vision (69% of total posts), patient experience after PCIOL implantation (30%), patient perception before PCIOL implantation (26%), and visual disturbances (24%). Most discussed PCIOLs were Vivity® (58% of total posts), PanOptix® (38%), Synergy® (26%), and Symfony® (13%). Patient perception of PCIOLs was most frequently influenced by healthcare professionals, online reading, and online videos (31%, 18%, and 15% of posts, respectively). A total of 215 posts (10% of total) discussed glasses use after PCIOL surgery: for EDOF and trifocal/multifocal PCIOLs, 37% and 56% of posts discussing glasses use stated being glasses free, respectively. A total of 537 posts discussed visual disturbances: halos/rings (66%) and starbursts (36%) were the most discussed visual disturbances for all lens types. Being glasses free after PCIOL implantation appeared to be a key driver of patient satisfaction.

CONCLUSION

Social media provides a rich source of information on patient perception, experience, and overall satisfaction of PCIOLs that can be used to complement and guide the collection of further evidence generated through controlled trials.

Prevalence of uncorrected distance refractive errors and associated risk factors in employees of an academic centre

BACKGROUND

Uncorrected refractive error (RE) may affect the work performance of adults in the workplace. The aim of current study was to determine the prevalence of corrected and uncorrected RE, and the determinants of uncorrected RE in adult employees of a university.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study of Tehran University Medical Sciences' staff. Besides demographic and some specific questionnaires, ophthalmic examinations including the measurement of uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), best spectacles corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and presenting visual acuity were performed for all participants. The need for spectacles was defined as UCVA worse than 6/12 in the better eye that could be corrected to better than 6/12 with spectacles based on subjective refraction.

RESULTS

In total, 4460 individuals with mean age of 42.32 ± 8.80 were included in the study. The VA of the better eye was 0.01 ± 0.05 logMAR for BCVA, 0.13 ± 0.26 for UCVA, and 0.05 ± 0.12 for presenting VA. Prevalence of RE was 15.7%, including uncorrected RE of 5% and spectacles coverage (corrected RE) of 10.7%. The proportion of individuals with elementary education and poor-fair status of general health were 1.62 times higher in the uncorrected group. In the univariate analysis, type of occupation (office versus non-office workers), socioeconomic status, and insurance of employees were not related to uncorrected RE (all P > 0.4). Myopia was the only factor associated with uncorrected RE in logistic regression analysis (odds ratio = 2.73, 95%CI = 1.02-7.31, P = 0.04).

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of uncorrected RE and spectacle coverage were 5% and 10.7%, respectively. Myopia was almost three times more likely to be associated among employees with uncorrected RE.

From randomised controlled trials to real-world data: Clinical evidence to guide management of diabetic macular oedema

Randomised clinical trials (RCTs) are generally considered the gold-standard for providing scientific evidence for treatments' effectiveness and safety but their findings may not always be generalisable to the broader population treated in routine clinical practice. RCTs include highly selected patient populations that fit specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Although they may have a lower level of certainty than RCTs on the evidence hierarchy, real-world data (RWD), such as observational studies, registries and databases, provide real-world evidence (RWE) that can complement RCTs. For example, RWE may help satisfy requirements for a new indication of an already approved drug and help us better understand long-term treatment effectiveness, safety and patterns of use in clinical practice. Many countries have set up registries, observational studies and databases containing information on patients with retinal diseases, such as diabetic macular oedema (DMO). These DMO RWD have produced significant clinical evidence in the past decade that has changed the management of DMO. RWD and medico-administrative databases are a useful resource to identify low frequency safety signals. They often have long-term follow-up with a large number of patients and minimal exclusion criteria. We will discuss improvements in healthcare information exchange technologies, such as blockchain technology and FHIR (Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources), which will connect and extend databases already available. These registries can be linked with existing or emerging retinal imaging modalities using artificial intelligence to aid diagnosis, treatment decisions and provide prognostic information. The results of RCTs and RWE are combined to provide evidence-based guidelines.

Qualitative Exploration of the Visual Function Impairments and Health-Related Quality of Life Impacts of Amblyopia in Adult and Pediatric Populations

INTRODUCTION

Amblyopia is a reduction in vision in one or both eyes due to impaired development of the visual pathway. This study explored the experience of amblyopia and treatment from the patient, caregiver, and clinician perspectives.

METHODS

A targeted literature review, including a review of social media listening (SML) studies, was conducted. Next, qualitative interviews were conducted with amblyopia patients, caregivers of children with amblyopia, and ophthalmologists with experience treating patients with amblyopia. The findings informed the development of a disease model. Amblyopia clinical experts provided input at key stages.

RESULTS

Twelve data sources were reviewed, including qualitative studies in the literature and SML studies. Overall, 133 patients/caregivers were interviewed (23 adults, 16 adolescents, 47 child-caregiver dyads), plus 10 ophthalmologists from the United States, France, and Germany. Reduced visual acuity, impaired depth perception, impaired peripheral vision, and double vision were the most frequently reported symptoms. Amblyopia impacted daily activities (reading, using digital devices), the ability to move around, school/work (productivity, seeing the board in class), emotional well-being (frustration, sadness), and social functioning (difficulty socializing). Treatments, including patching and corrective lens, also impacted daily activities (using digital devices, sports/leisure), mobility (bumping into things), and work/school (tasks taking longer) as well as emotional well-being (embarrassment), and social functioning (bullying/stigma).

CONCLUSION

The findings contribute valuable insights into the adult and pediatric experience of amblyopia from a multi-stakeholder perspective. The findings were used to critically assess existing clinical outcome assessments and supported the development of patient- and observer-reported outcome measures for use in amblyopia clinical trials.

Particular Anatomy of the Hyperopic Eye and Potential Clinical Implications

Background and Objectives: Hyperopia is a refractive error which affects cognitive and social development if uncorrected and raises the risk of primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG). Materials and Methods: The study included only the right eye-40 hyperopic eyes in the study group (spherical equivalent (SE) under pharmacological cycloplegia over 0.50 D), 34 emmetropic eyes in the control group (SE between -0.50 D and +0.50 D). A complete ophthalmological evaluation was performed, including autorefractometry to measure SE, and additionally we performed Ocular Response Analyser: Corneal Hysteresis (CH), Corneal Resistance Factor (CRF); specular microscopy: Endothelial cell density (CD), Cell variability (CV), Hexagonality (Hex), Aladdin biometry: Anterior Chamber Depth (ACD), Axial Length (AL), Central Corneal Thickness (CCT). IBM SPSS 26 was used for statistical analysis. Results: The mean age of the entire cohort was 22.93 years (SD ± 12.069), 66.22% being female and 33.78% male. The hyperopic eyes had significantly lower AL, ACD, higher SE, CH, CRF. In the hyperopia group, there are significant, negative correlations between CH and AL (r -0.335), CRF and AL (r -0.334), SE-AL (r -0.593), ACD and CV (r -0.528), CV and CRF (r -0.438), CH (r -0.379), and positive correlations between CCT and CH (r 0.393) or CRF (r 0.435), CD and ACD (r 0.509) or CH (0.384). Age is significantly, negatively correlated with ACD (r -0.447), CH (r -0.544), CRF (r -0.539), CD (r -0.546) and positively with CV (r 0.470). Conclusions: Our study suggests a particular biomechanical behavior of the cornea in hyperopia, in relation with morphological and endothelial parameters. Moreover, the negative correlation between age and ACD suggests a shallower anterior chamber as patients age, increasing the risk for PACG.

The impact of spectacle correction on the well-being of children with vision impairment due to uncorrected refractive error: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Despite being easily corrected with eyeglasses, over two-thirds of the world's child population presents with vision impairment (VI) due to uncorrected refractive errors. While systematic reviews have shown that VI can significantly impact children's depression and anxiety, none have reviewed the existing literature on the association between spectacle correction and well-being. This review aims to address this knowledge gap.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The main outcome measures were i) cognitive and education well-being which included mathematics and english literacy, reading fluency, school function, academic performance and grades; ii) psychological and mental health well-being which included physical anxiety, learning anxiety and mental health test scores and iii) quality of life.

METHODS

We searched eight databases for articles published between 1999 to 2021 that assessed the associations between spectacle correction and children's (0 to 18 years) well-being. There were no restrictions on language or geographic location. Two reviewers independently screened all publications using validated quality checklists. The findings of the review were analysed using narrative synthesis. [PROSPERO CRD42020196847].

RESULTS

Of 692 records found in the databases, six randomised control trials, one cohort, one cross-sectional and one qualitative study (N = 9, 1.3%) were eligible for analysis. Data were collected from 25 522 children, 20 parents and 25 teachers across the nine studies. Seven were rated as good quality (67 to 100% of quality criteria fulfilled), and two were satisfactory (33 to 66% of quality criteria fulfilled). Spectacle correction was found to improve children's educational well-being (n = 4 very strong evidence; n = 2 strong evidence), quality of life (n = 1, very strong evidence) and decrease anxiety and increase mental health scores (n = 1, strong evidence).

CONCLUSION

Evidence suggests that spectacle correction improves children's cognitive and educational well-being, psychological well-being, mental health, and quality of life. More research is needed, given the paucity of published literature and the focus on only three aspects of well-being.

Health-related quality of life for children using orthokeratology (OK), peripheral lenslet designed (PLD) and single-vision (SV) spectacles: based on Child Health Utility 9 Dimensions (CHU9D)

PURPOSE

This study investigated the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among children with myopia who used orthokeratology (OK), peripheral lenslet designed (PLD), and single-vision (SV) spectacles.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted between February of 2021 and August of 2022. It involved 211, 231, and 206 respondents with OK, PLD, and SV spectacle lenses, respectively. The HRQoL was presented as utility values using a general preference-based Child Health Utility-nine Dimensions (CHU9D) questionnaire. Descriptive statistical analysis and nonparametric hypothesis testing were used to compare the HRQoL in the OK, PLD, and SV groups.

RESULTS

Of the 648 respondents, the average utility scores was 0.936 (95 % confidence interval (CI): 0.929-0.943). Children who wore the PLD spectacles had a significantly higher utility scores (0.955, 95 % CI: 0.946-0.963) than those who wore the SV spectacles (0.926, 95 % CI: 0.913-0.939) and the OK lenses (0.925, 95 % CI: 0.913-0.937) (p < 0.01). The PLD spectacle wearers were less likely to be worried, sad, tired, or annoyed than those who wore OK and SV spectacles (P < 0.05). Self-reported improved eyesight and lessened eye pain and discomfort from myopia correction using PLD spectacles had higher utility values (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The PLD spectacles had a significantly higher HRQoL than the OK and SV spectacles among children. Having better eyesight and less eye pain/discomfort from myopia correction could improve the HRQoL of children. This data indicates that PLD spectacles may be considered for myopia management in children and adolescents.

Using the C-Read as a Portable Device to Evaluate Reading Ability in Young Chinese Adults: An Observational Study

We evaluated the reading characteristics of normal-sighted young adults using C-Read to provide baseline healthy population values. We also investigated the relationship between the National Eye Institute’s Visual Functioning Questionnaire (VFQ-25) score and reading ability, myopia, and hours of screen use, focusing on the extent to which these factors affect participants’ visual function and, ultimately, their vision-related quality of life (QoL). Overall, 207 young, healthy participants (414 eyes) aged 18–35 years were tested for reading speed using C-Read connected to a smartphone-based application between December 2022 and January 2023. Each participant received a VFQ-25 questionnaire to evaluate vision-related QoL. Data on daily e-screen usage hours were collected. Among the participants, 91 (44.0%) were women; their mean (SD) age was 22.45 (4.01) years. The mean (SD) reading acuity (RA) was 0.242 (0.124), 0.249 (0.120), and 0.193 (0.104) logarithmic minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) for the right, left, and both eyes, respectively. The mean (SD) maximum reading speed (MRS) was 171.65 (46.27), 168.59 (45.68), and 185.16 (44.93) words per minute (wpm) with the right, left, and both eyes, respectively. The mean (SD) critical print size (CPS) was 0.412 (0.647), 0.371 (0.229), and 0.419 (1.05) logMAR per the right, left, and both eyes, respectively. The RA and CPS were significantly different between sexes (p = 0.002 and p = 0.001). MRS was significantly different between the education level (p = 0.005) and myopia level groups (p = 0.010); however, it was not clear whether this difference was confounded by age. The myopic power in diopters significantly affected RA (coefficient, −0.012; 95% CI, −0.018 to −0.006; p = 0.001); screen time significantly affected MRS (coefficient, 0.019; 95% CI, 0.57 to 6.33; p = 0.019). RA (coefficient, −21.41; 95% CI, −33.74 to −9.08; p = 0.001) and duration of screen use (coefficient, -0.86; 95% CI, −1.29 to −0.43; p < 0.001) independently had a significantly negative correlation with VFQ-25 scores. Our findings provide a baseline value for C-Read in normal-sighted young adults. Refractive status significantly affected RA, while screen time significantly affected MRS. Interventions aimed at enhancing RA may have the potential to maximize vision-related QoL and enable older adults with impaired vision to achieve greater outcomes. Future, larger-scale, C-Read experiments will help provide newer, more optimal methods for the early diagnosis of visual impairment.

Prevalence of refractive errors in Nepalese children and adults: a systematic review with meta-analysis

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Country-specific estimates of the prevalence of refractive errors are important to formulate national eye health policies for refractive care services.

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to systematically synthesise available literature and estimate the prevalence of refractive errors in the Nepalese population.

METHODS

PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were systematically searched for articles on refractive errors and presbyopia published in English language until 27 September 2022. Population and school-based quantitative, cross-sectional prevalence studies and Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness survey repository data were included. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Newcastle Ottawa scale adapted for cross-sectional studies. Data extraction was performed with consensus among the reviewers. Meta-analysis of the prevalence was performed using the Random effects model to estimate the pooled proportions.

RESULTS

A total of 38 studies with 101 701 participants were included: 18 studies in children (n = 31 596) and 20 in adults (n = 70 105). In children, the estimated pooled prevalence of overall refractive errors was 8.4% (95% CI: 4.8 to 12.9) with myopia, hypermetropia and astigmatism prevalent in 7.1% (95% CI: 3.7 to 11.4), 1.0% (95% CI: 0.7 to 1.3) and 2.2% (95% CI: 0.9 to 3.9), respectively. In adults, the prevalence of refractive errors, uncorrected refractive errors, and uncorrected presbyopia were 11.2% (95% CI: 8.0 to 14.9), 7.3% (95% CI: 5.4 to 9.5) and 78.9% (95% CI: 69.1 to 87.3), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The pooled prevalence of refractive errors is relatively low while uncorrected refractive errors and presbyopia are high in Nepalese population suggesting a need for better access to refractive care services in the country. The paucity of quality evidence on prevalence of refractive errors, particularly in children, indicates a need for a well-designed population-based study to accurately estimate the current prevalence of refractive errors.

Comparison of Literature Review, Social Media Listening, and Qualitative Interview Research Methods in Generating Patient-Reported Symptom and Functional Impact Concepts of Presbyopia

INTRODUCTION

To compare the insights obtained about the experience of individuals with presbyopia (age-related impaired near vision) across three different sources of qualitative data: a structured targeted literature review, a social media listening (SML) review, and qualitative concept elicitation (CE) interviews with individuals with presbyopia and healthcare professionals (HCPs). The number of concepts identified, depth of data, cost and time implications, and value of the patient insights generated were explored and compared for each method.

METHODS

Keyword searches in bibliographic databases and review of abstracts identified 120 relevant publications; in-depth targeted literature review of the qualitative studies identified key symptoms/functioning concepts. SML was conducted using publicly accessible social media sources with focus on ophthalmologic diseases using a pre-defined search string. Relevant posts from individuals with presbyopia (n = 270) were analysed and key concepts identified. Semi-structured CE interviews were conducted with individuals with presbyopia (US n = 30, Germany n = 10, France n = 10), and HCPs (US = 3, France n = 2, Germany n = 1, Japan n = 1) who were experienced in treating presbyopia. Verbatim transcripts were coded using thematic analysis. A conceptual model summarised concepts identified across sources RESULTS: Out of the total of 158 concepts identified across the three sources, qualitative CE interviews yielded the highest number of concepts (n = 151/158, 96%), with SML yielding a third of the concepts (n = 51/158, 32%) and the literature review yielding the fewest concepts (n = 33/158, 21%). Qualitative CE interviews provided greater depth of data than SML and literature reviews. SML and literature reviews were less costly and quicker to run than qualitative CE interviews and also were less burdensome for participants.

CONCLUSION

Qualitative CE interviews are considered the gold standard in providing greater depth of understanding of the patient experience, and more robust data. However, research requirements, budget, and available time should be considered when choosing the most appropriate research method. More time and cost-effective SML and literature review methods can be used to supplement qualitative CE interview data and provide early identification of measurement concepts. More research and regulatory guidance into less traditional qualitative methods, however, are needed to increase the value of SML and literature review data.

REFRACTIVE ERROR CHANGE DURING TREATMENT OF DIABETIC MACULAR EDEMA: A Post Hoc Analysis of the Diabetic Retinopathy Clinical Research Protocol T Trial

PURPOSE

To evaluate the impact of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy on the refractive error in eyes with diabetic macular edema.

METHODS

Post hoc analysis of Diabetic Retinopathy Clinical Research protocol T. Spherical equivalent (SE) was calculated for study and fellow eyes at baseline, 1-year, and 2-year visits. The SE change of the eyes with edema was compared with those with resolved edema. The correlation between refractive error changes and central subfield thickness was evaluated.

RESULTS

Among 543 study eyes, SE changed from -0.17 (2.04) D at baseline visit to -0.16 (2.14) D at 2 years giving a hyperopic shift of 0.04 (0.82) D (P = 0.022). Among fellow eyes, mean (SD) SE changed from -0.19 (2.1) D at baseline to -0.11 (2.1) D at 2 years, giving a hyperopic shift of 0.12 (0.84) D (P = 0.001). No significant difference in SE shift was found between eyes with and without edema at 2 years in phakic (0.12D and 0.08 D, P = 0.87) and pseudophakic eyes (-0.24D and -0.08D, P = 0.30). The SE shift was not correlated with central subfield thickness change at the end of the second year (r = 0.02, P = 0.62).

CONCLUSION

Diabetic macular edema patients have minimal changes in refractive error. The correction of refractive error may be considered during treatment, regardless of the presence of edema.

Regional variations and temporal trends of childhood myopia prevalence in Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

To provide contemporary and future estimates of childhood myopia prevalence in Africa.

METHODS

A systematic online literature search was conducted for articles on childhood (≤18 years) myopia (spherical equivalent [SE] ≤ -0.50D; high myopia: SE ≤ -6.00D) in Africa. Population- or school-based cross-sectional studies published from 1 Jan 2000 to 30 May 2021 were included. Meta-analysis using Freeman-Tukey double arcsine transformation was performed to estimate the prevalence of childhood myopia and high myopia. Myopia prevalence from subgroup analyses for age groups and settings were used as baseline for generating a prediction model using linear regression.

RESULTS

Forty-two studies from 19 (of 54) African countries were included in the meta-analysis (N = 737,859). Overall prevalence of childhood myopia and high myopia were 4.7% (95% CI: 3.3%-6.5%) and 0.6% (95% CI: 0.2%-1.1%), respectively. Estimated prevalence across the African regions was highest in the North (6.8% [95% CI: 4.0%-10.2%]), followed by Southern (6.3% [95% CI: 3.9%-9.1%]), East (4.7% [95% CI: 3.1%-6.7%]) and West (3.5% [95% CI: 1.9%-6.3%]) Africa. Prevalence from 2011 to 2021 was approximately double that from 2000 to 2010 for all studies combined, and between 1.5 and 2.5 times higher for ages 5-11 and 12-18 years, for boys and girls and for urban and rural settings, separately. Childhood myopia prevalence is projected to increase in urban settings and older children to 11.1% and 10.8% by 2030, 14.4% and 14.1% by 2040 and 17.7% and 17.4% by 2050, respectively; marginally higher than projected in the overall population (16.4% by 2050).

CONCLUSIONS

Childhood myopia prevalence has approximately doubled since 2010, with a further threefold increase predicted by 2050. Given this trajectory and the specific public health challenges in Africa, it is imperative to implement basic myopia prevention programmes, enhance spectacle coverage and ophthalmic services and generate more data to understand the changing myopia epidemiology to mitigate the expanding risk of the African population.

Eye Habits Affect the Prevalence of Asthenopia in Patients with Myopia

Purpose

This study aims to explore the risk factors of asthenopia in the myopic population.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, myopia patients were inquired about their eye habits and were requested to complete an asthenopia questionnaire and ocular examinations. Age, gender, occupation, anisometropia, eye care education, weekly outdoor activity time, duration of continuous near work, daily screen time, dry eye, near phoria, and binocular accommodative facility were calculated using the Student's test-test, Mann Whitney U test, and Pearson's chi-square test. Spherical equivalents and astigmatism were calculated using a generalized estimating equation. Binary logistic regression was performed on factors with a p-value <0.05.

Results

Of the 65 myopic patients, 57% showed asthenopia, 52% experienced blurry vision, 37% felt their eyes hurt or sore, and 28% felt tired when performing close work. Asthenopia patients were older than patients without asthenopia (Z = −2.887, p=0.004). Daily screen time, continuous near-work time, eye care education, and dry eye were positively correlated with asthenopia (χ² = 8.64, p=0.003; χ2 = 13.873, p < 0.001, χ2 = 9.643, p=0.002; χ2 = 7.035, p=0.008). After eliminating collinearity, eye care education and continuous near-work time were identified as independent risk factors of asthenopia, with odds ratios of 0.115 and 4.227, respectively.

Conclusion

This study shows that receiving eye care education from schools and hospitals and limiting near-work duration to less than 45 minutes per session could reduce the occurrence of asthenopia in myopic patients. This approach may be a more economical and convenient way for myopic people to relieve asthenopia.

A review of study designs and data analyses in metabolomics studies in myopia

Metabolomics analyzes the entire range of small molecule metabolites in biological systems to reveal the response signals that are transmitted from "genetics and environment", which could help us understand complex phenotypes of diseases. Metabolomics has been successfully applied to the study of eye diseases including age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. In this review, we summarize the findings of myopic metabolomics and discuss them from a design and analysis perspective. Finally, we provide new ideas for the future development of myopia metabolomics research based on the broader ocular metabolomics study.

Exploring the Experience of Living With and Managing Presbyopia

SIGNIFICANCE

Presbyopia typically occurs around 40 years of age and affects approximately one-quarter of the global population. Up to October 2021, there were no approved pharmacotherapies for presbyopia and common treatments, such as glasses, can have disadvantages for individuals' health-related quality of life.

PURPOSE

To document the experience of living with and managing presbyopia, identify perspectives on treatment options, and determine whether there is an unmet need in the treatment landscape.

METHODS

Coded transcripts of concept elicitation (CE; N = 20) and cognitive debriefing (CD; N = 20) interviews with presbyopic individuals, originally conducted for development of patient-reported outcome instruments, were reanalyzed to identify salient concepts describing participants' experiences with presbyopia treatments. Qualitative ranking exercises assessed participants' preferences for a potential pharmacotherapy versus existing treatments.

RESULTS

As most concepts were identified with the CE interviews, data reflect CE findings unless otherwise noted. Average age across CE/CD interviews was 49.4 years; a vast majority of participants used glasses for presbyopia treatment. Four themes related to treatment with glasses were identified with the interviews: inconvenience during daily activities, negative physical sensations around the eyes/head, limitations, and undesirable impacts on daily life (e.g., psychosocial). Most commonly, participants reported inconveniences related to forgetting glasses and psychosocial impacts (e.g., feeling/looking older). Strained/tired eyes and limited ability to see at varying distances were also reported. Among participants with near-vision glasses who provided data, two thirds expressed interest in alternative treatments. Additionally, almost three quarters of the participants ranked hypothetical eye drops as their first or second preferred option, versus reading glasses, contact lenses, magnifying glasses, and surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

This study explored the experience of living with and managing presbyopia, identified limitations and negative impacts of current treatments. Pharmacological development (e.g., eye drops) may fulfill an unmet need in the presbyopia treatment landscape.

Factors affecting quality of life in keratoconus

PURPOSE

To identify the factors affecting the quality of life (QoL) in adults with keratoconus, using the disease-specific Keratoconus Outcomes Research Questionnaire (KORQ).

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, 574 patients with keratoconus completed the 29-item KORQ (18-item activity limitations and 11-item symptoms subscales) and demographic information. Based on mean corneal curvature to grade keratoconus severity, participants were categorised into four groups: mild <48 dioptres [D]; moderate: 48 to 53 D; advanced: 54 to 55 D and severe: >55D. Rasch analysis was used to assess the psychometric properties and to score the KORQ. Multivariable regression was performed to determine the independent impact of age, sex, laterality, severity and duration of keratoconus, education, employment status and mode of treatment for keratoconus on activity limitations and symptoms.

RESULTS

Mean (SD) age was 24.5 (5.1) years. 304 (53%), 160 (28%), 26 (4%) and 84 (15%) belonged to keratoconus groups 1, 2, 3 and 4, respectively. Rasch analysis demonstrated the 'activity limitations' and 'symptoms' KORQ subscales to possess good psychometric properties. Statistically significant associations were found between activity limitation score and the following measures: visual acuity (VA) in the better-seeing eye (r = -0.10, p = 0.01); VA in the worse-seeing eye (r = -0.09, p = 0.04) and ocular aberrations (r = -0.13, p = 0.008) in the worse-seeing eye. Statistically significant associations were also found between symptoms score and mean corneal curvature in the better-seeing eye (r = -0.10, p = 0.02). In regression models, female sex was associated with 21% worse symptom score than male (β = -0.33, 95% CI, -0.09, -0.59, p = 0.01) and working people experienced clinically and statistically significantly greater trouble from symptoms compared to those not working (β =0.44, 95% CI, 0.17, 0.70, p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

People with keratoconus have poorer QoL in terms of activity limitations if they have poorer VA and greater wavefront aberrations, and in terms of symptoms if they are female and employed.

Myopia prediction: a systematic review

Myopia is a leading cause of visual impairment and has raised significant international concern in recent decades with rapidly increasing prevalence and incidence worldwide. Accurate prediction of future myopia risk could help identify high-risk children for early targeted intervention to delay myopia onset or slow myopia progression. Researchers have built and assessed various myopia prediction models based on different datasets, including baseline refraction or biometric data, lifestyle data, genetic data, and data integration. Here, we summarize all related work published in the past 30 years and provide a comprehensive review of myopia prediction methods, datasets, and performance, which could serve as a useful reference and valuable guideline for future research.

Quality of life impact of eye diseases: a Save Sight Registries study

BACKGROUND

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the quality-of-life (QoL) impact of eye diseases (keratoconus; neovascular age-related macular degeneration, AMD; retinal vein occlusion, RVO; and diabetic macular edema, DME) using the Impact of Vision Impairment (IVI) questionnaire, and to determine the relationship between the IVI scores and visual acuity.

METHODS

This cross-sectional, multicentre, real-world study utilised the prospective, web-based Save Sight Registries. The IVI was completed by 1557 patients: 307 with keratoconus, 1049 with AMD, 148 with RVO and 53 with DME. Statistical analysis included Rasch analysis, Welch t-test, one-way ANOVA, Tukey's test, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression.

RESULTS

The IVI scales (Overall; Visual Function, VF; Emotional, EM) had robust psychometric properties. The keratoconus patients had the worst Overall (adjusted mean: 48.2 vs. DME 58.8, RVO 64.6, AMD 67.6 units), VF (47.7 vs. DME 59.4, RVO 65.9, AMD 68.9 units) and EM (50.8 vs. DME 63.1, RVO 69.2, AMD 71.8 units) scores (all p < 0.05). The IVI scales scores weakly correlated with better and worse eye visual acuity (Pearson's r 0.24-0.39, all p < 0.05). The correlations were similar in the better eye (Overall 0.35, VF 0.39, EM 0.24) and the worse eye (Overall 0.31, VF 0.33, EM 0.25) visual acuity. Correlations with visual acuity were stronger for VF than for the EM scores.

CONCLUSIONS

The IVI was a psychometrically robust QoL questionnaire. Keratoconus patients had worse IVI scores than patients with retinal diseases. The low strength of correlations between visual acuity and QoL scores, although statistically significant, suggested that a complex relationship exists.

Economic evaluations of vision screening to detect amblyopia and refractive errors in children: a systematic review

OBJECTIVE

To synthesize and appraise economic evaluations of vision screening to detect vision impairment in children.

METHODS

Literature searches were conducted on seven electronic databases, grey literature, and websites of agencies conducting health technology assessments. Studies were included if they (1) were full, comparative economic evaluations that used cost-utility, cost-benefit, cost-effectiveness, cost-consequence, or cost-analysis methods; (2) described screening services designed to detect amblyopia, strabismus, or uncorrected refractive errors in children under 6 years of age; and (3) published after 1994. High-quality studies were synthesized descriptively. Currencies were reported in 2019 Canadian dollars. Quality was assessed with the Pediatric Quality Appraisal Questionnaire (PQAQ).

RESULTS

Vision screening services were conducted by paid staff, volunteers, or health care professionals in schools or clinics. Thirteen studies were published from five countries: China (n = 1), United States (n = 4), United Kingdom (n = 1), Canada (n = 1), and Germany (n = 6). Analytical techniques included cost-utility/cost-effectiveness combination (n = 2), cost-effectiveness analysis (n = 7), cost-utility analysis (n = 1), cost-benefit analysis (n = 1), cost-consequence analysis (n = 1), and cost analysis (n = 1). Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios ranged from C$1,056 to C$151,274 per additional case detected/prevented and from C$9,429 to C$30,254,703 per additional QALY gained, depending on the type of screening service and comparator. Six studies were determined to be of high quality.

CONCLUSION

Vision screening to detect amblyopia for young children may be cost-effective compared with no screening if amblyopia reduced quality of life. Studies varied significantly in the type of screening services and comparators used. Methodological limitations were common. Future studies would be aided immensely by prospective studies on the impact of amblyopia on the health-related quality of life of young children and guidelines on the effective conduct of vision screening.

Effects of glaucoma on detection and discrimination of image blur

PURPOSE

Blur is one of the most commonly reported visual symptoms of glaucoma, but it is not directly measured by current clinical tests. We aimed to investigate the effects of glaucoma on detection and discrimination of image blur.

METHODS

Participants were people with glaucoma, separated into two groups with (n = 15) or without (n = 17) central visual field defects measured by 10-2 perimetry, and an age-similar control group (n = 18). First, we measured contrast detection thresholds centrally using a 2-interval forced choice procedure. We then measured blur detection and discrimination thresholds for the same stimuli (reference blurs 0, 1 arcmin) using a 2-alternative forced choice procedure under two contrast conditions: 4× individual detection threshold for the low contrast condition; 95% contrast for the high contrast condition. The stimulus was a horizontal edge bisecting a hard-edged circle of 4.5° diameter. Data were analysed by linear mixed modelling.

RESULTS

Contrast detection thresholds for the glaucoma group with central visual field defects were raised by 0.01 ± 0.004 (mean ± SE, Michelson units) (p = 0.002) and by 0.01 ± 0.004 (p = 0.03) relative to control and glaucoma without central visual field defect groups, respectively. Blur detection and discrimination thresholds were similar between groups, with small elevations in blur detection thresholds in the glaucoma groups not reaching statistical significance (detection p = 0.29, discrimination p = 0.91). The lower contrast level increased thresholds from the higher contrast level by 1.30 ± 0.10 arcmin (p < 0.001) and 1.05 ± 0.10 arcmin (p < 0.001) for blur detection and discrimination thresholds, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Early-moderate glaucoma resulted in only minimal elevations of blur detection thresholds that did not reach statistical significance in this study. Despite the prevalence of blur as a visual symptom of glaucoma, psychophysical measurements of blur detection or discrimination may not be good candidates for development as clinical tests for glaucoma.

Prevalence and Burden of Refractive Errors at National and Sub-national Levels in Iran

Purpose

To estimate the prevalence, burden of refractive errors and their associated trend from 1990 to 2018 and geographic inequalities in Iran.

Methods

Data regarding the epidemiology of refractive errors was extracted from three different sources: systematic review of published literature, data from visual school screening programs, and data from Iran's national health survey (NHS). The pool of all available data on refractive errors as well as demographic, location, and socioeconomic status covariates were fitted in spatio-temporal and Gaussian process regression models to predict the prevalence of refractive errors from the years 1990 to 2018 in 31 provinces grouped by age and sex in order to calculate years lived with disability (YLDs).

Results

In 2018, the age-adjusted prevalence of refractive errors was 16.32% (95% uncertainty interval [UI]: 12.44-21.48%) in both sexes, 17.98% (95% UI: 13.74-23.61%) in women, and 14.66% (95% UI: 11.14-19.36%) in men. The prevalence of refractive errors reveals that it increases with age. Refractive errors contributed to 441.41 and 348.38 YLDs in men and women, respectively. The age-standardized prevalence growth was 31.30% in females and 24.32% in males from the years 1990 to 2018. Significant geographical heterogeneity was observed. The age-standardized YLDs rates of refractive errors represent an increasing trend of 28.9% increase from 1990 to 2018.

Conclusion

Over 28 years, the prevalence of refractive errors increased significantly. Women tend to have higher rates of prevalence. The prevalence increased in older ages. Border provinces had the lowest prevalence. Age-standardized YLDs rates of refractive errors increased by about 30%.

Relationship Between Myopia and Other Risk Factors With Anxiety and Depression Among Chinese University Freshmen During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Purpose: To investigate the association of myopia and other risk factors with anxiety and depression among Chinese university freshmen during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Tianjin Medical University from October 2020 to December 2020. Ophthalmic examination of the eyes was performed by an experienced ophthalmologist. Detailed information on depression, anxiety, and other risk factors was collected via the Self-rating Anxiety Scale and Self-rating Depression Scale.

Results: The overall prevalence of anxiety and depression in our study was 10.34 and 25.13%, respectively. The prevalence of myopia and high myopia as 92.02 and 26.7%, respectively. There were significant associations between anxiety and spectacle power [odds ratios (OR) = 0.89; 95% CI: 0.81–0.98, P = 0.019], sphere equivalent (OR = 0.89; 95% CI: 0.81– 0.98, P = 0.025), sleep time (OR = 0.53; 95% CI: 0.35–0.79, P = 0.002), and body mass index (OR = 0.93; 95% CI: 0.86–0.99, P = 0.047). In the multivariable linear regression models, spectacle power (β = −0.43; 95% CI: −0.68 to −0.19, P = 0.001) and sphere equivalent (β = −0.36; 95% CI: −0.60 to −0.11, P = 0.005) were negatively associated with anxiety scores, whereas axial length (β = 0.54; 95% CI: 0.02–1.07, P = 0.044) was positively correlated with anxiety scores. Every 1 h decrease in sleep time was associated with a 0.12-point increase in depression score.

Conclusion: Myopia was associated with anxiety and anxiety scores. The greater the degree of myopia, the higher the anxiety score. However, myopia was not found to be associated with depression. The results highlight the importance of providing psychological support to students with myopia during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The influence of alcohol intake in myopia development or progression: The SUN cohort study

BACKGROUND

Myopia is a highly prevalent disorder, and one of the first causes of blindness. In turn, alcohol consumption has been shown to be a risk factor for many diseases and a main contributor to the global burden of disease. However, no studies have investigated the relationship between alcohol intake and myopia. Our aim was to prospectively assess the association between alcohol intake and the development or progression of myopia.

METHODS

In a Spanish dynamic prospective cohort (the SUN Project) we assessed 15,642 university graduates, recruited between 1999 and 2018 and followed up biennially through mailed questionnaires. Alcohol intake was assessed with a validated 136-item food frequency questionnaire. Development or progression of myopia was collected in subsequent questionnaires during follow-up every two years.

RESULTS

Alcohol intake was linearly and significantly associated with a higher risk of myopia development or progression: the OR for 10-year incidence/progression of myopia was 1.05, 95% CI 1.01-1.09 per each 10-grams increase in alcohol intake.

CONCLUSIONS

Alcohol consumption might lead to the development or progression of myopia, although confirmation is needed for the mechanisms through which this association may occur, thus further research is needed to verify these findings.

Prevalence of refractive errors and color vision deficiency in a population of industry-workers in Abhar, Iran

Visual impairment due to refractive errors and color vision deficiency (CVD) can affect the visual abilities of workers in workplace. Identifying the prevalence of common visual problems helps us to prevent and treat occupational ocular problems.This study was conducted on 2600 males referring from companies for a routine medical exam to Occupational Medicine Center. In all subjects, visual acuity and refraction were measured. Assessment of color vision was performed by Ishihara color test. In present study, right eyes of subjects were selected to statistical analysis.The mean spherical equivalent was -0.19 ± 1.39 diopter with a range of -11.00 to +10.00 diopter. Whereas 71% of persons were emmetropic, 20% and 9% of them were myopic and hypermetropic, respectively. From a total subjects, 164 of them had CVD with prevalence of color blindness of 6.3%. In comparison with normal subjects, CVD had no significant effect on refractive findings of our subjects (P > .05).Our data present the prevalence of refractive errors and color blindness among Iranian industry-workers. Compared with other studies, our subjects have a lower prevalence of refractive errors, and similar rate of prevalence of color blindness.

Understanding the visual function symptoms and associated functional impacts of phakic presbyopia

BACKGROUND

Presbyopia is defined as the age-related deterioration in the ability to focus on close objects, causing difficulty with near vision tasks. The study aim was to understand the lived experience of phakic presbyopia and identify all relevant visual function symptoms and associated functional impacts.

METHODS

Fifty individuals with clinician-confirmed phakic presbyopia (US n = 30, France n = 10, Germany n = 10) and seven healthcare professionals (HCPs) participated in in-depth, face-to-face, qualitative concept elicitation interviews. Verbatim transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis methods.

RESULTS

Visual function symptoms reported by participants with phakic presbyopia were categorized as: primary near vision functioning symptoms (impaired near visual acuity, n = 50/50, 100%; difficulty with near vision in dim light, n = 42/50, 84%; difficulty focusing at close distances, n = 30/50, 60%; difficulty seeing things when glare is present, n = 30/50, 60%) and secondary symptoms (eye strain, n = 37/50, 74%; dry eyes, n = 35/50, 70%; headaches, n = 30/50, 60%). Proximal impacts on functional vision included difficulty reading in near vision (n = 49/50, 98%, including printed text and handwriting), seeing objects in near vision n = 48/50, 96%, and performing activities of daily living that require near vision (n = 49/50, 98%, including using a smartphone or computer). Distal impacts on functional vision included emotional, work, financial and social impacts. HCP interviews supported participant findings.

CONCLUSION

Findings provide a comprehensive understanding of the lived experience of phakic presbyopia which informed the development of a presbyopia conceptual model and patient-reported outcome assessments of vision correction independence and near vision functioning. The sample did not include those whose vision cannot be adequately corrected with lenses or surgery.

Evaluation of the content validity of patient-reported outcome (PRO) instruments developed for use with individuals with phakic presbyopia, including the Near Activity Visual Questionnaire-presbyopia (NAVQ-P) and the near vision correction independence (NVCI) instrument

BACKGROUND

Presbyopia is the age-related deterioration in the ability to focus on close objects. In order to develop a patient-reported outcome (PRO) instrument to assess near vision functioning, the Near Activity Visual Questionnaire (NAVQ) was adapted to incorporate modern technology (e.g. smartphones) and to be appropriate for use in phakic presbyopia, leading to the development of the NAVQ-Presbyopia (NAVQ-P). Additional single-item instruments of near vision correction independence (NVCI), correction preference (NVCP), and vision satisfaction (NVS) were also developed. The study aimed to evaluate the content validity of the NAVQ-P and additional instruments in individuals with phakic presbyopia.

METHODS

Participants in the US (n = 15), Germany (n = 10) and France (n = 10) took part in face-to-face, qualitative, cognitive debriefing interviews. Seven healthcare professionals (HCPs) were also interviewed to assess the clinical relevance of the PRO instruments. Interviews started with open-ended qualitative concept elicitation questioning; participants then completed the PRO instruments on an electronic tablet using a "think-aloud" process and were asked about their understanding and relevance of each item, instruction, response scale and recall period. Interviews were conducted in two rounds allowing for modifications between rounds.

RESULTS

The participants interpreted the majority of the PRO instruments and recall period correctly and consistently. They were able to select an appropriate response option without difficulty. Minor modifications were made to the PRO instruments based on interview findings. Instruction/item wording was modified to include reference to use of a magnifying glass, in addition to glasses and contact lenses. Two items were added to assess difficulty with precision tasks (e.g. sewing) and taking longer to adjust from distance to near vision. HCPs confirmed the relevance of the concepts being measured for presbyopia and recommended the addition of an item assessing contrast sensitivity.

CONCLUSIONS

Developed in accordance with the FDA PRO Guidance, the findings support content validity of the NAVQ-P as a suitable, well-understood instrument of relevant near vision functioning concepts in individuals with phakic presbyopia. The NVCI and additional PRO instruments are appropriate to assess near vision correction independence, correction preference, and vision satisfaction. Future work will assess the psychometric properties of the NAVQ-P and additional PRO instruments.

Quality-of-life outcomes of long-term contact lens wear: A systematic review

PURPOSE

The aim of this review was to evaluate the evidence on quality-of-life outcomes of long-term contact lens wear.

METHODS

A search for original articles that used validated measures to evaluate patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in long-term (≥2 years) contact lens wearers was conducted in Medline Ovid, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, CINAHL, and PsycInfo databases. The information including PRO measure (name, type, content) and key quality-of-life outcomes findings were extracted.

RESULTS

Seven articles that used 4 PRO measures to evaluate quality of life outcomes of long-term contact lens wear met the inclusion criteria. The median (range) number of contact lens wearers in these studies was 116 (31-247). The studies were conducted in 4 countries: USA, Spain, China, and Russia. All studies were conducted in myopic populations. None of the studies provided information on psychometric properties, validity and reliability of the PRO measures used. Five studies were conducted in children of which 3 studies evaluated PROs of myopia control contact lens wear. The studies reported that contact lens wear, including myopia control lens wear, was an effective method of refractive correction in children and adults in the long term in PRO-perspective, and resulted in a better quality of life status than with glasses. However, long-term dry eye and discomfort related symptoms were reported.

CONCLUSION

Overall, contact lens use improved quality of life status in children and adults. More research is required to better understand the long-term quality-of-life outcomes of contact lens wear.

The Prevalence of Visual Impairment and Refractive Errors among a Youth Population in Mozambique: Evidence of the Need for Intervention

Visual impairment (VI) can significantly interfere in the child's daily activities and quality of life, having a negative effect on their development and learning. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of VI and associated demographic factors in students examined during the program "Moçambique te vejo melhor". This study was cross-sectional and retrospective, based on the 2018/19 edition of the program. Eye examinations were performed in secondary school students, aged between 12 and 20 years, of five districts in Nampula province. The examination included visual acuity, non-cycloplegic refraction and assessment of the anterior and posterior segment and ocular adnexa. The prevalence of uncorrected, presenting and best-corrected VI found was 18.3%, 10.8%, and 5.0%, respectively. Refractive error (RE) had a prevalence of 24.7%, and the age groups between 15-17 years and 18-20 years were significantly associated with myopia (with OR: 4.9 and OR: 8.8, respectively), as well as the 11th and 12th grade (OR: 8.1 and OR: 10.7, respectively), and Malema district had association with myopia (ORa: 0.4) and hyperopia (ORa: 0.4 and OR: 0.3) as a protective factor. The prevalence of RE and VI was relatively high, showing the need for greater intervention at the school level.

Using face masks with spectacles versus contact lenses

PURPOSE

To test the hypothesis that various subjective ocular and task-related parameters associated with wearing a face mask would be better in neophyte contact lens (CL) wear compared to habitual spectacle (Sp) wear.

METHODS

Thirty participants were randomised to continue in Sp (n = 15) or wear somofilcon A daily disposable CL (n = 15) ('group'). A surgical face mask (Type II R) was worn for at least one hour per day on four or more days per week. After two weeks, participants completed the Quality of Life Impact of Refractive Correction Questionnaire (QIRC), a two-part face mask usability questionnaire and graded ocular-related symptoms using 0-100 visual analogue scales.

RESULTS

There was no difference between groups for overall QIRC score but some individual question scores reflected better quality of life in the CL: 'outdoor activities', 'keep fit' and 'able to do things' (all p < 0.05). Differences in favour of the CL were seen for the following in the face mask usability questionnaire: 'breathing', 'heat', 'comfort on ears', 'overall comfort', 'walking', 'driving', 'reading', 'computer use', 'exercising' and 'socialising' (all p < 0.05). Significant differences were also seen for the 0-100 VAS symptoms probing vision quality in favour of the CL: glare, distance and near vision, fogging, restricted field of view and peripheral blur.

CONCLUSION

This work supports anecdotal reports that CL are a better vision correction option than Sp when used in conjunction with a face mask. Participants reported a range of benefits to the CL/face mask combination for vision-related symptoms, breathing and heat-related symptoms and a number of day-to-day activities including walking, driving and exercising. All of the benefits relating to the CL are likely to result in improved adherence to face mask use. Overall, the findings of this work suggest that where possible, CL should be the preferred vision correction option for people using face masks.

Computational study for temperature distribution in ArF excimer laser corneal refractive surgeries using different beam delivery techniques

Refractive errors are the most common causes of vision impairment worldwide and laser refractive surgery is one of the most frequently performed ocular surgeries. Clinical studies have reported that approximately 10.5% of patients need an additional procedure after the surgery. The major complications of laser surgery are over/under correction and dry eye. An increase in temperature may be a cause for these complications. The purpose of this study was to estimate the increase in temperature during laser refractive surgery and its relationship with the complications observed for different surgical techniques. In this paper, a finite element model was applied to investigate the temperature distribution of the cornea when subjected to ArF excimer laser at a single spot using various beam delivery systems (broad beam, scanning slit, and flying spot). The Pennes bio-heat equation was used to predict the temperature values at different laser pulse energies and frequencies. The maximum temperature increase by ArF laser ([Formula: see text] frequency and [Formula: see text] pulse energy) at a single spot was [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text] diopter correction ([Formula: see text] of ablation of corneal stroma) using broad beam, scanning slit, and flying spot beam delivery approaches respectively. The peak temperature due to a single pulse was estimated to be [Formula: see text]. Although the peak temperature (sufficient energy to break intermolecular bonds) exists for a very short time ([Formula: see text]) compared to the thermal relaxation time ([Formula: see text]), there is some thermal energy exchange between corneal tissues during a laser refractive surgery. Heating may cause collagen denaturation, collagen shrinkage, and more evaporation and hence proposed to be a risk factor for over/under correction and dry eye.

Quality of Life in Adults with Childhood Glaucoma: An Interview Study

PURPOSE

To explore and report on the quality-of-life (QoL) issues encountered by adults with childhood glaucoma.

DESIGN

Exploratory qualitative study.

PARTICIPANTS

Forty-seven participants with childhood glaucoma (defined as disease onset <18 years) recruited from the Australian and New Zealand Registry of Advanced Glaucoma (ANZRAG).

METHODS

A qualitative research methodology (interpretive phenomenology) was applied, and data were collected through semistructured in-depth interviews. NVivo-12 software (QSR International Pty Ltd) was used to inductively analyze and code data to identify QoL themes pertinent to the cohort studied.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Quality-of-life themes and subthemes.

RESULTS

Mean participant age was 40.0 ± 15.3 years, and 55% of participants were female. We identified 10 QoL themes pertinent to adults living with childhood glaucoma. Coping strategies and emotional well-being were the most prominent themes. Maladaptive coping strategies, including treatment nonadherence, were observed more commonly in individuals aged <40 years and those without a vision impairment or reviewed less regularly. Emotional well-being was affected by feelings of being misunderstood because of the rarity of the condition, being self-conscious of physical manifestations of the disease, and anxiety related to possible disease progression and vision loss. The effect of childhood glaucoma on family planning formed a novel QoL theme and included worry for their child to inherit the condition and an inability to fulfill parental duties. This often led to genetic counseling-seeking behaviors. Mobility issues were infrequently experienced.

CONCLUSIONS

Childhood glaucoma poses a substantial impact to the emotional well-being of adults with the condition, which is mediated by the use of coping strategies. Genetic counseling and family planning options may be important. This study supports the development of a childhood glaucoma-specific patient-reported outcome measure for assessment of the psychosocial impact of childhood glaucoma in adults.

Identification of novel loci influencing refractive error in East Asian populations using an extreme phenotype design

The global "myopia boom" has raised significant international concerns. Despite a higher myopia prevalence in Asia, previous large-scale genome-wide association studies (GWASs) were mostly based on European descendants. Here, we report a GWAS of spherical equivalent (SE) in 1852 Chinese Han individuals with extreme SE from Guangzhou (631 < -6D and 574 > 0D) and Wenzhou (593 < -6D and 54 > -1.75 D), followed by a replication study in two independent cohorts with totaling 3538 East Asian individuals. The discovery GWAS and meta-analysis identify three novel loci which show genome-wide significant associations with SE, including 1q25.2 FAM163A, 10p11.22 NRP1/PRAD3, and 10p11.21 ANKRD30A/MTRNR2L7, together explaining 3.34% of SE variance. 10p11.21 was successfully replicated. The allele frequencies of all three loci show significant differences between major continental groups (P < 0.001). The SE reducing (more myopic) allele of rs10913877 (1q25.2 FAM163A) demonstrates the highest frequency in East Asians and much lower frequencies in Europeans and Africans (EAS = 0.60, EUR = 0.20, AFR = 0.18). The gene-based analysis additionally identifies three novel genes associated with SE, including EI24, LHX5 and ARPP19. These results provide new insights into myopia pathogenesis, and indicate the role of genetic heterogeneity in myopia epidemiology among different ethnicities.

Diffractive Optic IOL Exchange: Indications and Outcomes

PURPOSE

To assess indications for and outcomes of surgical exchange of diffractive optic multifocal and extended depth of focus IOLs in favor of monofocal IOLs.

SETTING

Private Practice, Los Angeles, CA.

DESIGN

Retrospective chart review.

METHODS

All cases of diffractive optic IOL exchange between June 2007 and October 2020 for diffractive optic dysphotopsia (DOD) (light induced concentric circles, spider web patterns, etc.), poor visual quality, or night vision symptoms were evaluated retrospectively regarding surgical indications, comorbidities, surgical methods, surgical complications and visual outcomes. Ocular surface disease and ametropia were managed prior to consideration of IOL exchange.

RESULTS

The charts of 64 eyes of 46 patients were included. 53/64 (83%) had DOD, 50/64 (78%) experienced reduced quality of vision and 12/64 (19%) complained of night vision difficulties. 27/64 (42%) of eyes had no ocular comorbidities; 15/64 (23%) of eyes had more than one comorbid condition and 12/64 (19%) were post laser refractive surgery. Laser posterior capsulotomy had been performed in 15/64 (23%) of eyes. There were a variety of inciting diffractive optic IOLs and various monofocal exchange lenses and fixation techniques were used based on symptoms, comorbidities, and status of the posterior capsule. Following IOL exchange all eyes were relieved of DOD and all eyes had improved or unchanged CDVA.

CONCLUSIONS

Diffractive Optic IOLS may induce unsatisfactory visual outcomes. However, in this large series of IOL exchanges, diffractive optic dysphotopsia and reduced visual function can be overcome with exchange for a monofocal IOL, despite comorbidities or an open posterior capsule.