Laser Versus The Lens

The arguments for laser surgery to correct myopia are compelling, but it’s not for everyone.

Short-sightedness is on the increase. In Asia, there is an epidemic of myopia, with 90% of young Chinese now affected, and in New Zealand, rates are rising, too. The cause is still being debated, although lifestyle factors are suspected, specifically the many hours children are spending staring at screens instead of being outdoors, which is believed to have a protective effect.

More short-sighted people means more contactlens wearers, and scientists are now saying this may be contributing to the pollution of waterways.

Contact lenses are disposable – some are designed to be worn for only one day – and the obvious way to get rid of them is to flush them down a sink or toilet. A team from Arizona State University has estimated that six to 10 tonnes of plastic lenses end up in wastewater in the US each year. And, as these lenses are broken down into smaller particles, there is a risk that aquatic organisms will mistake them for food. The researchers suggest wearers dispose of used contact lenses in the bin with the rest of their solid waste.