A study by University College London and Moorfields Eye Hospital has found that daily disposable contact lens users are four times more likely to develop a rare sight-threatening infection. The research, published in the journal Ophthalmology, identified reusable lenses as a key risk factor for Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK).
The infection risk also increases when lenses are worn overnight or while showering. Lead author Professor John Dart said: 'In recent years we have seen an increase of Acanthamoeba keratitis in the UK and Europe, and while the infection is still rare, it is preventable and warrants a public health response.'
AK affects about one in 20,000 contact lens users annually in the UK. Symptoms include eye pain, redness, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and excessive tearing. Around a quarter of those affected suffer significant vision loss, and another 25 per cent require corneal transplants.
The study analysed over 200 patients, finding that reusable lenses almost quadrupled the risk, while showering more than tripled it. Researchers estimate between 30 and 62 per cent of AK cases could be prevented by switching to daily disposables.
Co-author Nicole Carnt urged wearers to avoid water exposure: 'Even simple advice like 'no water' stickers on lens cases could help.' Professor Dart added that contact lenses remain generally safe, but good hygiene is essential.
