Contact Lens Use and Prescribing Trends in Suburban Selangor, Malaysia: A Retrospective Study

Abstract

Background and Objective: Contact lens use is an increasingly common vision care practice worldwide, offering convenience and aesthetic appeal. However, inappropriate prescribing and unsafe use of contact lenses are associated with ocular complications, making this an important public health issue. Understanding prescribing patterns within specific populations can provide valuable insights to promote safe lens use and prevent avoidable eye health problems. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the prescription trends of disposable soft contact lenses in selected suburban areas of Selangor, Malaysia.

Methods: A retrospective review of 396 disposable contact lens prescriptions from 10 optometry clinics was conducted from January 2019 to December 2020. Data on demographic characteristics and contact lens criteria (modality, design, material, and water content) were extracted.

Results: Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the prescription patterns. The mean age of contact lens wearers was 25.3 } 9.7 years, with a female predominance (87%). Monthly disposable lenses were most frequently prescribed (79%), followed by 1–2-week (10%) and 3–6-month lenses (8%). Daily disposable lenses accounted for only 3%. Cosmetic tinted lenses dominated design preferences (50%), followed by spherical lenses (40%). Hydrogel lenses were prescribed more often (64%) than silicone hydrogel (36%). Nearly equal distribution was observed for low- and medium-water content (46% and 45%, respectively).

Conclusion and Implications for Translation: Suburban prescribing trends are strongly influenced by affordability and aesthetics, with young women representing the largest consumer group. However, the low uptake of daily disposables and the widespread use of cosmetic lenses raise concerns about ocular safety and potential public health risks. These findings may suggest potential value in community-based education on safe lens practices, regulatory oversight of cosmetic lens sales, and strategies to improve equitable access to safer contact lens options.