Technology
136 Contact Lenses
William McCune
STS Chapter Draft:
Intro:
Connection to STS:
Body paragraphs:
Conclusion:
References:
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In a world full of making life easier for us, one thing that is efficient at doing just that is the contact lens. Without this technology, many people would not be able to drive, be a good student, play sports, or do a number of other daily activities.
Contact lenses have a long history of development and innovation. Important breakthroughs in the field include the introduction of molding techniques for glass lenses in 1936 and the use of plastics for contact lenses in the 1940s (Worp et al., 2014). Over time, contact lens materials have evolved, with polymer- or silicone-hydrogel being commonly used today (Musgrave & Fang, 2019). Various types of contact lenses have been developed, such as scleral lenses for keratoconus Rathi et al. (2015) and orthokeratology lenses for corneal reshaping (Bullimore & Johnson, 2020). Contact lenses have also been explored for other applications, including drug delivery. Therapeutic contact lenses have been developed for ocular drug delivery, although challenges remain in maintaining critical properties like water content and oxygen permeability (Maulvi et al., 2016). Additionally, contact lenses have been used for biosensing applications, with the potential to monitor physiological parameters like glucose levels (Ma et al., 2021). However, the use of contact lenses is not without risks. Extended wear of contact lenses is a major risk factor for eye infections due to microbial contamination (Üstüntürk & Zeybek, 2012). Fungal keratitis is another potential complication associated with contact lens wear (Sharma et al., 2017). Contact lens-related discomfort and dryness are common issues, and managing coexisting diseases is important for minimizing discomfort (Waghmare & Jeria, 2022). In recent years, advancements in contact lens technology have been made. Biomimetic-engineered silicone hydrogel contact lens materials have been developed, which mimic the surface morphology of corneal tissue while maintaining essential properties of the lens (Ishihara, 2023). Wearable contact lenses for medical applications, such as drug delivery, have also been explored, with electrospun fibers showing promise in enhancing drug release (Hosseinian et al., 2022).
In conclusion, contact lenses have undergone significant advancements in materials, designs, and applications. While there are risks and challenges associated with contact lens wear, ongoing research and technological advancements continue to improve the safety and effectiveness of these vision correction devices.
Contact lenses offer several benefits to athletes and individuals in society. One significant advantage is their ability to improve visual acuity and functional outcomes for individuals with vision disorders such as keratoconus. Studies have shown that contact lens wear can lead to improved visual acuity, with a majority of patients achieving a visual acuity of 6/9 or better Lim & Vogt (2002). Contact lenses, such as rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses, soft and soft toric lenses, piggyback contact lenses (PBCL), hybrid lenses, and scleral lenses, are available options for individuals with keratoconus (Rathi et al., 2013). These lenses can help correct the irregular corneal shape associated with keratoconus, improving vision and overall quality of life for these individuals. In the realm of sports, contact lenses can provide athletes with enhanced visual performance. For example, in sports like basketball, where visual acuity and depth perception are crucial, contact lenses can help athletes achieve optimal visual clarity on the court. Eye screenings of athletes have been found to be beneficial in identifying refractive errors and conditions like keratoconus, and contact lens wear can be recommended to improve their visual performance (Legault et al., 2014). Furthermore, the development of silicone hydrogel daily disposable contact lenses has brought additional benefits to contact lens wearers. These lenses offer improved comfort, convenience, and safety compared to traditional contact lenses. Silicone hydrogel materials allow for increased oxygen permeability, reducing the risk of hypoxia and promoting healthier eyes (Sulley & Dumbleton, 2020). Daily disposable lenses eliminate the need for cleaning and storage, reducing the risk of contamination and eye infections. These benefits make silicone hydrogel daily disposable contact lenses a popular choice for athletes and individuals in society who value convenience and eye health. In summary, contact lenses provide various advantages for athletes and individuals in society. They can improve visual acuity and functional outcomes for individuals with vision disorders like keratoconus. Contact lenses also enhance visual performance in sports, allowing athletes to achieve optimal visual clarity. The development of silicone hydrogel daily disposable lenses has further improved comfort, convenience, and safety for contact lens wearers. These advancements in contact lens technology contribute to better vision and overall quality of life for individuals in various settings.
Contact lenses offer several benefits to athletes, particularly in improving visual acuity and overall performance. Studies have shown that specially designed contact lenses, such as orthokeratology and peripheral defocus modifying contact lenses, have moderate effects on controlling myopia (Huang et al., 2016). Additionally, contact lens wear has been found to have a positive impact on teenagers, especially those involved in sports, and can enhance their self-perception and acceptance by peers (Plowright et al., 2015). Furthermore, contact lenses are beneficial for athletes as they provide sharp and unobstructed vision, are more comfortable than eyeglasses, and preserve a natural appearance, making them suitable for an active lifestyle (Saxon et al., 2019). Moreover, contact lenses are preferred over spectacles or refractive surgery for vision correction in sports, with the type of sport practiced and the athlete’s age and level of sports activity influencing this preference (Zeri et al., 2018). In the context of myopia control, multifocal soft contact lenses have been found to retard the progression of myopia in young individuals, highlighting their potential in managing refractive errors in athletes (Zhu et al., 2019; Malinowski et al., 2022). Additionally, the convenience and health benefits offered by silicone hydrogel daily disposable contact lenses contribute to successful contact lens wear, with lower dropout rates reported compared to other types of contact lenses (Sulley & Dumbleton, 2020). Furthermore, contact lenses have been identified as a preferred system of correction in sports, emphasizing their significance in enhancing visual performance and quality of vision for athletes (Bickle et al., 2021; Monsálvez-Romín et al., 2018). Moreover, contact lenses have been explored as potential drug delivery systems, with research focusing on incorporating molecularly imprinted polymers into hydrogel contact lenses to increase drug loading and prolong sustained release time, which could have implications for athletes requiring ophthalmic drug delivery (Rykowska et al., 2021; Hu et al., 2011). Overall, the evidence suggests that contact lenses play a crucial role in improving visual performance, managing refractive errors, and enhancing the overall experience of athletes, making them a valuable tool for athletes across various sports.
I. Introduction A. Definition of contact lenses B. Overview of the history and development of contact lenses C. Statement of the benefits of contact lenses to society
II. Historical Development of Contact Lenses A. Early attempts and discoveries 1. Leonardo da Vinci’s sketches 2. Thomas Young’s concept of “neutralizing glasses” B. The invention of the first contact lens 1. Sir John Herschel and Sir George Airy’s contributions 2. The glass-blown contact lenses by F.A. Muller C. The evolution of materials and designs 1. Glass to plastic lenses 2. Early discomfort and challenges D. The role of science and technology 1. Contributions of Otto Wichterle and Drahoslav Lím 2. Introduction of soft contact lenses
III. Benefits of Contact Lenses to Society A. Improved Vision Correction 1. Correction of refractive errors 2. Greater field of vision B. Enhanced Aesthetics 1. Cosmetic contact lenses 2. Improved self-esteem C. Convenience and Lifestyle 1. Freedom from glasses 2. Support for an active lifestyle D. Therapeutic Uses 1. Treatment of certain eye conditions 2. Post-surgery and post-injury applications E. Economic and Environmental Benefits 1. Cost savings compared to glasses 2. Reduction in waste from disposable lenses
IV. Challenges and Considerations A. Maintenance and hygiene B. Accessibility and cost C. Potential risks and complications D. Regulatory oversight and safety standards
V. Conclusion A. Recap of the history and development of contact lenses B. Highlight the multifaceted benefits to society C. Emphasis on the ongoing improvements and research in the field D. Call to responsible use and care for contact lenses to maximize their benefits while minimizing risks.
The use of contact lenses can provide several benefits to professional athletes, enhancing their performance and overall athletic experience in various ways:
- Unobstructed Vision:
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- Contact lenses provide a wide, unobstructed field of vision, allowing athletes to have a clear view of their surroundings without the limitations imposed by eyeglass frames.
- Improved Peripheral Vision:
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- Contact lenses can enhance peripheral vision, which is crucial for athletes in sports like basketball, soccer, and football, as it allows them to be aware of their surroundings and anticipate movements more effectively.
- Enhanced Depth Perception:
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- Contact lenses can improve depth perception, aiding athletes in sports that require precise spatial judgment, such as tennis, golf, or baseball.
- Reduced Glare and Distortion:
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- Certain contact lenses come with features like anti-reflective coatings, which can reduce glare and distortion from bright lights or the sun, making them especially beneficial for outdoor athletes.
- No Fogging or Rain Obstruction:
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- Athletes who participate in outdoor sports may benefit from contact lenses as they do not fog up in cold weather or get covered in rain, snow, or sweat like eyeglasses can.
- Better Fit for Helmets and Gear:
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- Contact lenses do not interfere with helmets or protective gear, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit for athletes, particularly in sports like cycling, football, or motor racing.
- Improved Performance in Water Sports:
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- Contact lenses are suitable for water-based sports, as they don’t get waterlogged, foggy, or displaced like regular eyeglasses. Swimmers, surfers, and divers often find contacts advantageous.
- Aesthetic Benefits:
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- Contact lenses provide athletes with a natural and unobtrusive appearance, which can boost confidence and self-esteem during competitions or public appearances.
- Easy Adaptability to Prescription Changes:
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- For athletes whose vision prescription changes, contact lenses are easy to adapt to the new prescription, providing consistent visual acuity.
- Convenience and Comfort:
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- Athletes can wear contact lenses without worrying about glasses slipping down their noses or getting in the way during intense physical activities. This added comfort can contribute to better focus and concentration.
It’s important to note that not all athletes may prefer contact lenses, and the choice between contacts and eyeglasses depends on personal preferences, the nature of the sport, and individual vision needs. Athletes should consult with eye care professionals to determine the best vision correction option for their specific circumstances.