CooperVision has launched what it describes as “the world’s only contact lens with digital zone optics”. Speaking at the launch of Biofinity Energys in Sydney, Joe Tanner, Professional Services Manager at CooperVision said the contact lens had been purpose designed for patients who use digital devices at least two hours per day. He said on average, Australians spend 10 hours a day engaging in digital devices and cited a 2015 survey of optometrists, which found that 90.3 per cent of Australian and 80.9 per cent of New Zealand practitioners reported an increase in symptoms of eye fatigue or asthenopia due to digital device use.
Mr. Tanner described the Biofinity Energys lens as being the same as the Biofinity except that it has been enhanced from the optical design perspective: Biofinity Energys has digital zone optics, which consist of multiple front-surface aspheric curves. These aspheric curves are employed across the entire optic zone to distribute power evenly, simulating more positive power in the centre of the lens. This helps ease the accommodative burden without impacting distance vision. Additionally, he said this new contact lens features the “proven Biofinity material” which locks water molecules inside the lens so the patient’s eyes stay moist and comfortable, even when they are staring at a digital screen.
Trial Results
Interim data from a small trial found the majority of optometrists reported excellent vision, excellent centration and movement, and good comfort. Asked how they would rate the overall performance of Biofinity Energys lenses, five optometrists responded “excellent’ and four responded “good”. No optometrists reported an average, below average or poor overall impression of the lens.
Mr. Tanner reported in a separate study carried out overseas, eight out of 10 wearers agreed that Biofinity Energys lenses with digital zone optics lens design made their eyes feel less tired; eight out of ten reported their eyes didn’t feel strained and nine out of ten agreed their lenses made them “feel good”.
