Effcorr.txt


Subject:  The Effects of "Corrective" Lenses:  Insight and
	  Comment From Eye Doctors


     No clinical or statistical studies have ever demonstrated the
long-term safety of a (minus) "corrective" lens.

     In fact, a certain percentage of doctors believe that -- as the
second-opinion -- "corrective" lenses (also known as
"compensatory" negative lenses) usually create dependency and
make the eyes move more rapidly in a negative refractive direction.

     These concerns have been voiced in the professional
literature by concerned doctors who support the concept 
the "second opinion" to do work for the prevention of nearsightedness
with a plus lens.

     Here are sample excerpts from the professional literature voicing
concerns about the safety of "corrective" lenses:


     "The use of compensatory lenses to treat or neutralize the
symptoms does not correct the problem.	The current education and
training of eye care practitioners discourages preventive and
remedial treatment." R.L.  Gottlieb, Journal of Optometry and
Visual Development, 13(1):3-27, 1982.

     "The emphasis on compensatory lenses has posed a problem for
many years in our examinations.  These lenses do not correct
anything and may not serve the patient in his best interests over
a period of time." CJ.  Forkiortis, OEP Curriculum, 53:1, 1980

     "There are frequently ignored patterns of addiction to minus
lenses.  The typical prescription tends to overpower and fatigue
the visual system and what is often a transitory condition becomes
a lifelong situation which is likely to deteriorate with time." S.
Gallop, Journal of Behavioral Optometry, 5(5):115-120, 1994

     "Single-vision minus lenses for full-time use produce
accommodative insufficiency associated with additional symptoms
until the patient gets used to the lens.  This is usually
accompanied by a further increase in myopia and the cycle begins
anew." M.H.  Birnbaum, Review of Optometry, 110(21):  23-29, 1973.

     "Minus lenses are the most common approach, yet the least
likely to prevent further myopic progression.  Unfortunately, they
increase the near-point stress that is associated with
progression." B.  May, OEP Publications, A- 112, 1984.