Eurolens Research – do you know a child (aged 8-12) who is short-sighted? (ref 757)
Description
Introduction: The University’s contact lens research unit, Eurolens Research, is looking for children to take part in a clinical study. Details of the study are given below [or ‘Click link for further information’]. If you are interested, please contact the Recruitment Team on
eurolens@manchester.ac.uk or 0161 306 2132 (ref 757).
Study Design: This study will compare the performance and acceptance of soft contact lenses and spectacles designed to correct and slow down the progression of myopia (short-sightedness) in children. All participating children will get to try both the spectacles and the contact lenses during the study. Benefits for volunteers include a direct experience that may help your child and you decide if you would like to pursue one or both of these treatments.
During the study, each participating child will be asked to wear myopia-control spectacles and myopia-control contact lenses, each for a 12-week period in a randomised order, and provide their feedback on the experience. The study visits involve routine, non-invasive optometric procedures and vision tests, like those performed during a standard eye examination, along with fitting/assessment of spectacles and contact lenses. There is no dilation of the eyes. Full training for contact lens wear will be provided, and children will be asked to wear the study spectacles/contact lenses on a full-time basis during the study (at least 6 days per week, at least 10 hours per day). You and your child will also be asked to provide subjective feedback on the spectacles/contact lenses during the study via questionnaires.
Inclusion Criteria: Volunteers (aged 8-12 years, inclusive) who currently wear spectacles (or would benefit from spectacles) to improve their distance vision. Further inclusion criteria apply and people with some eye or health problems are unable to participate. Informed consent will be obtained in writing from volunteers (assent) and parental/guardian permission/consent will be obtained from their parent or guardian.
Duration and Appointments: The study will involve the child, along with a parent/guardian, attending our clinic for nine visits (lasting between 30 minutes and 2 hours) over a period of around six months.
Reimbursement: Volunteers completing this study will be reimbursed for their time. If a volunteer does not complete the study, a pro-rata reimbursement will be issued, based on the amount of time they have spent at the clinic. During the study, contact lenses and spectacles will be provided free of charge. Travel costs or loss of earnings from your participation will be at volunteer’s own expense.
Contact details: For more information about this project, please contact eurolens@manchester.ac.uk or call the recruitment team on 0161 306 2132 (ref 757). For further information about Eurolens Research and what you can expect as a study volunteer, please visit our website at manchester.ac.uk/eurolens.