NEW YORK— ECPs around the country, as well as professional groups such as the American Optometric Association (AOA) and the Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) are issuing warnings and caveats this week to patients and consumers about the nature of contact lenses as medical devices and the need for professional fitting and prescriptions in light of recent news reports about the rise in popularity of “circle” cosmetic contact lenses over the Internet.

A Sunday July 4^th New York Times feature reported on a new style of contact lenses, known as “circle contact lenses”, which cover a portion of the whites of the eyes, making pupils appear larger and eyes more doll-like as a growing fashion fad among mostly younger women. The Times reported that while the so-called “circle” cosmetic contact lenses are not approved for sale in the U.S., it hasn’t stopped consumers (mostly teenagers and young adults) from purchasing the lenses online, where they are available from international ‘sources.’

The article made an impact throughout the optical industry and ECPs have weighed in on the dangerous trend.

The AAO’s statement reminds patients, “Any type of contact lens is a medical device that requires a prescription, proper fitting by an eye care professional and a commitment to proper care by the consumer.” Legislation passed in 2005 requires exams and fittings by ECPs for all contact lens purchases.

The AOA told VMail that it is working to inform consumers of the risk of these illegal lenses. AOA Staff, the group said, led a meeting last month of federal officials convened by the Food & Drug Administration, concerned about the illegal sale of these and other decorative contact lenses.

“With the FDA’s focus of ‘Protecting and Promoting Health,’ the recent gathering served as a platform to brainstorm with FDA officials,” said Joe E. Ellis, OD, president of the AOA. “We found that FDA officials were shocked, as well as dismayed, by how easy these lenses can be obtained, and how aggressively adolescents and young adults are targeted.”

A spokesperson for the FDA told VMail that so far the FDA has not issued any consumer warnings or notices about these cosmetic contact lenses; he could not predict if such an alert would be announced in the future.

The Academy reminds consumers that inflammation and pain can occur from improperly fitted, over-the-counter lenses and lead to more serious problems including corneal abrasions and blinding infections. Meanwhile, the AOA is working with the consumer media to encourage people to visit an eyecare professional and get a proper prescription. “A beauty fad is not worth causing problems with your sight,” Ellis added.

Risks associated with the improper use of decorative contact lenses include conjunctivitis, corneal swelling, eye infection, allergic reaction and corneal abrasion due to poor lens fit and/or improper lens care.

Optometrists are encouraged to report any violations of the sale of contact lenses, or any adverse health consequences, to the AOA’s Washington office while the Academy of Ophthalmology recommends GetEyeSmart.org for more information on contact lens safety.

Added Jon Webb, OD, co-owner Downtown EyeCare, Marquette, Mich., “The same rules would apply as with any contact lens: they should be professionally fit and the patient’s ocular health monitored with periodic visits while you use this product. It is still a contact and it is still worn on your eye.”