Researchers hail “Top 10” studies

An eye research institution has chosen its best science papers from 2022. 

The peer-reviewed studies range from the performance of contact lenses in slowing myopia progression in children to the effects of omega-3 fatty acid supplements and patient satisfaction with eyelid cleansers. 

The Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) in Ontario, Canada, whittled down the list from 26 peer-reviewed manuscripts covering clinical studies, laboratory research and reviews it produced.

Director Lyndon Jones said: “The sheer volume of these high-calibre studies can be overwhelming at times. That’s why we have selected 10 publications that represent essential knowledge for today’s eye care professionals.”

Omega-3 and omega-6 food supplements improved dry eye symptoms if taken for at least three months according to one study. Fatty acids have reported anti-inflammatory effects. 

Researchers found dual-focus contact lenses slowed myopia progression in children in an international, six year trial. Participants who initially wore the control lens showed a greater slowing in progression after they moved onto the test lenses, three years in. Progression slowed for the entire length of the trial in participants who wore the lenses being investigated for the full six years. 

Eyecare professionals should make patients aware of the potential adverse effects of eyelid cleansers that tackle the ocular mite demodex, which causes dry eye diseases and contact lens drop out, according to another paper. Some treatments caused tear film instability, conjunctival hyperaemia and ocular surface staining.

Difficulty with handling contact lenses can lower patient satisfaction across all measures, affecting overall lens wearing success, reports one study.

Find a searchable database of more than 2,600 papers, articles, education and scientific presentations at CORE.