SAN RAMON, Calif.—A study commissioned by CooperVision among new contact lenses wearers offers valuable information that eyecare professionals (ECPs) can use to better reach new patients, increase their satisfaction and reduce dropout, the company reported. The research—part of the CooperVision Consumer Insights Series—was conducted among more than 1,000 adults in the U.S. and Germany who had been wearing contacts between two and 12 months. “Our partnership with ECPs around the world extends well beyond our products and services, including offering viewpoints from consumers that can advance clinical successes and practices’ business outcomes,” Kevin Barrett, senior vice president of strategy and lifecycle management for CooperVision, said in the announcement.

“This new research validates some assumptions that have existed for years, and gives ECPs compelling data to engage new contact lens wearers in conversations that could improve their near- and long-term experiences.”

According to CooperVision, among the observations from the study is the uptick seen in wearer commitment to contact lenses after they have been wearing them for longer than six months. After three and six months of starting wear, 31 percent of respondents noted they would likely stop using contact lenses in the next six months. However, that figure drops to 19 percent and 18 percent among people who had begun their lens wear nine months and 12 months ago, respectively. Additionally, people who identified as dual contact lens and spectacle wearers were four times more likely to continue using lenses in the next six months versus contact lens-only wearers, according to the company’s announcement.

The study also looked at issues of most concern to new wearers. Insertion and removal handling and comfort were both identified as the top obstacles, yet 75 percent of new wearers reported no problems with these factors—a sign of continued advancements in products and education.

Additionally, the study found that committed wearers scored at least 10 percentage points higher on benefits they had already experienced from contact lens wear versus non-committed wearers, including feeling confident in their appearance and the ability to play sports or take part in physical activities without worry, among other benefits.

When asked about their interest in new or existing contact lens technologies, health and hydration came out on top. A contact lens technology that is healthier for the eye (e.g., a contact lens that allows more oxygen to get to my cornea) ranked number one at 32 percent of adults, while lenses that improve hydration for dry eyes came in at number two (29 percent).

Similarly, approximately one in four respondents expressed interest in currently available technologies, including multifocal lenses, UV protection, and assisting with tired eyes caused by digital device use. At the same time, the ability to have the latest technology was the single largest point of influence among wearers in requesting a specific lens. These results point to the opportunity for ongoing education and awareness from manufacturers and ECPs, not only to attract new wearers, but even after they are fit with lenses that incorporate those features.

An infographic highlighting many of the findings is available here.