Global trends in multifocal and monovision contact lens fitting for presbyopia
A recent international survey highlighted significant changes in the prescribing patterns of multifocal and monovision soft contact lenses for presbyopia over the past 2 decades. The study analyzed data from 52,580 soft daily wear lens fittings across 20 countries and noted a growing adoption among presbyopes aged 45 and older.
Key Findings:
- Increased Prescriptions: Multifocal and monovision lenses accounted for 26.4% of presbyopic fits in 2000, rising to 61.1% by 2023—a more than 2-fold increase.
- Gender Differences: Women were more likely to be prescribed these lenses (52.7%) than men (45.1%).
- Age-Related Trends: Multifocal lens fitting peaked between ages 50–65, declined until age 85–90, and saw a slight resurgence beyond 90 years.
- Recent Data (2019-2023): Among 13,014 recent fits, 51% were multifocal, 10% monovision, and 39% non-presbyopic corrections.
The study underscores a substantial shift towards multifocal and monovision lenses for managing presbyopia. However, a notable proportion of presbyopic contact lens wearers still do not receive corrections tailored to their condition.
Reference
Morgan PB, Efron N, Woods CA, et al. International trends in prescribing multifocal and monovision soft contact lenses to correct presbyopia (2000-2023): An update. Cont Lens Anterior Eye. 2024;doi: 10.1016/j.clae.2024.102348. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39645523.
