"Although unauthorized use of decorative contact lenses is a concern year-round, Halloween is the time when people may be inclined to use them, perhaps as costume accessories," said FDA eye expert Bernard Lepri, OD, MS, MEd.
According to the AOA’s 2011 American Eye-Q survey, 11 percent of respondents indicated wearing decorative or colored contact lenses that don’t provide vision correction. Of those, 36 percent report illegally purchasing them without a prescription and from a source other than an eye doctor. The organization reminds consumers that only a proper medical evaluation from an eye doctor can determine whether or not patients are viable candidates to wear contact lenses, that the lenses fit properly and if they are capable of wearing lenses without problems. More advice on proper contact lens handling can found on the AOA’s new site at www.ContactLensSafety.org.
Similarly, Prevent Blindness America (PBA) has several safety tips on its website ranging from costumes, cosmetics, treats and contact lenses. “Halloween should be a fun time that your child remembers for years to come. Every year, there are several hundred eye injuries related to costumes and masks treated in U.S. hospital emergency rooms,” the organization said, adding that improper use of cosmetic lenses can lead to serious eye complications ranging from bacterial infections and swelling to corneal ulceration and permanent loss of sight.
On a local level, Ohio attorney general Mike DeWine announced that he has joined forces with Prevent Blindness Ohio (PBO) and the Ohio Optical Dispensers Board to warn consumers about the dangers of over-the-counter sales of decorative contact lenses during this Halloween season. According to the Optical Dispensers Board, the number of consumer complaints filed regarding the illegal sale of cosmetic contact lenses and the number of resulting cease and desist orders issued to violating businesses have shown a steady increase after a period of decline, especially during the Halloween season.
“Costume contact lenses we see in the movies and on TV are administered by professionals. Ohio families need to be aware that decorative contact lenses sold over-the-counter are not only illegal, but can also be very dangerous to our loved ones’ health,” said DeWine, encouraging Ohioans to report these illegal sales to (614) 466-9709.