Essilor Stellest Lenses Show Sustained Efficacy in Slowing Pediatric Myopia Progression, Study Finds
Long-term data from a study presented at the 2023 Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) meeting reveal that Essilor Stellest lenses significantly unhurried myopia progression in children, with effects lasting up to seven years. The findings, which highlight the potential of specialized spectacle lenses in myopia management, add to growing evidence supporting noninvasive interventions for this increasingly prevalent condition.
Key Study Findings
The research, led by Dr. Björn Drobe of EssilorLuxottica, followed 40 children in China who wore Essilor Stellest lenses over seven years. Compared to a modeled control group based on historical data and published progression models, children using the lenses experienced: – 1.53 D of myopia progression on average, versus 3.83 D in the control group (a difference of 2.3 D). – 0.79 mm increase in axial length (the length of the eyeball), compared to 1.71 mm in the control group (a difference of 0.92 mm). – Lower rates of high myopia in adolescents up to age 19.
“Seven-year data provide valuable insight into treatment outcomes over time,” Drobe emphasized. “Sustained efficacy over such a long follow-up period is particularly encouraging, especially given the limited long-term clinical evidence in myopia management.”
How Essilor Stellest Lenses Work
Essilor Stellest lenses feature highly aspherical lenslets designed to reduce peripheral defocus, a factor linked to myopia progression. This optical design is believed to slow the elongation of the eyeball, a primary driver of worsening myopia. The lenses are the only spectacle correction currently authorized in the U.S. For slowing pediatric myopia, according to the FDA.
Implications for Clinical Practice
The study underscores the importance of early intervention in myopia management. Myopia, which affects over 40% of the global population, is associated with increased risks of retinal detachment, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. Noninvasive options like Stellest lenses offer a practical alternative to other treatments, such as atropine eye drops or orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses.
“These results highlight the consistent efficacy of Essilor Stellest lenses across clinical settings,” Drobe noted. “They continue to strengthen the evidence base supporting their use as a first-line option for pediatric myopia management.”
Expert Commentary
Dr. Emily Tan, an ophthalmologist at the University of California, San Francisco, who was not involved in the study, praised the findings. “The long-term data are compelling,” she said. “While more research is needed, this study provides strong support for incorporating specialized lenses into myopia management protocols.”
However, experts caution that individual outcomes may vary. “Parents should consult with an eye care professional to determine the most appropriate strategy for their child,” advised Dr. Michael Chen, a pediatric ophthalmologist at Johns Hopkins Medicine.
Future Directions
The study’s authors call for larger, multi-center trials to confirm these results and explore the lenses’ effectiveness in diverse populations. Researchers are investigating the potential of combining Stellest lenses with other interventions, such as low-dose atropine, to maximize myopia control.
As myopia rates continue to rise—projected to affect half the world’s population by 2050—innovations like Essilor Stellest lenses represent a critical step in addressing this public health challenge.
Key Takeaways
- Essilor Stellest lenses reduced myopia progression by 2.3 D and axial length growth by 0.92 mm over seven years.
- The lenses are the only spectacle correction authorized in the U.S. For slowing pediatric myopia.
- Long-term efficacy and safety make them a promising noninvasive option for myopia management.
- Consultation with an eye care professional is essential to determine the best approach for individual cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is myopia progression?
Myopia progression refers to the worsening of nearsightedness over time, typically measured by increases in prescription strength and axial length growth. Severe progression can lead to high myopia and associated complications.
How do Essilor Stellest lenses differ from regular glasses?
Essilor Stellest lenses use a unique aspherical design to reduce peripheral def