TFOS lifestyle report: Effects of contact lenses on the ocular surface and adnexa

Abstract

This presentation summarizes the evidence‐based findings of the Contact Lens Subcommittee of the recent Workshop of the Tear Film & Ocular Surface Society, entitled “A Lifestyle Epidemic: Ocular Surface Disease” (www.tearfilm.org).Several risk factors can increase the potential for complications associated with contact lens wear, such as ignoring appropriate contact lens care, disregarding an ocular or systemic disease (especially if associated with an unhealthy ocular surface), reduced clinical surveillance and the simultaneous use of excessive alcohol, tobacco, or recreational drugs. The recent pandemic has introduced novel challenges to the wear of contact lenses, including mask associated dry eye, discomfort and fatigue with digital devices, accidental exposure to hand sanitizers and a decreased duration of contact lens wear. Adverse environments for lens wearers, such as pollution, dust, smoke, and sport or work accidents determining ocular trauma, can represent challenges for the use of contact lens, though protective in some cases. To ensure the best outcomes for contact lens wearers in adverse situations, prescription choice should consider several factors, including night driving, sports, wear at high altitude, military application, and outer space environments.This presentation synthetises the lifestyle‐related choices made by both clinicians and contact lens wearers, and underlines that, if appropriately undertaken, these can positively impact contact lens wearers quality of life. A systematic review and meta‐analysis highlight the need to better understand the influence of lifestyle factors on contact lens dropout.