March 17, 2021
ST. LOUIS – Two leaders in the eye care industry are teaming up to change the way that ECPs think about and treat myopia. The World Council of Optometry (WCO) and CooperVision announced a new partnership in which they plan to not only raise awareness about the risks associated with myopia, but also establish standards of care for ECPs to follow when treating the condition.
One of the primary goals of the partnership is to create materials that are easily accessible to ECPs around the world by producing content in several languages. Additionally, guidance will be based on the most current, evidence-based research and technologies, and all resources will be available globally. The WCO and CooperVision hope that setting up standards of care will expand access to myopia management research and give ECPs a roadmap to follow when thinking about treatment plans.
“Myopia is arguably the most widespread epidemic faced by the global optometry community. Yet despite the increased prevalence and severity of the condition and its detrimental impacts on eye health, a standard of care does not exist to stem myopia progression. That is a disservice to our profession, patients and public health,” said Paul Folkesson, president, World Council of Optometry. “Together with CooperVision, which has been instrumental in creating the myopia management category over the past decade, we can make an even greater impact by providing the platforms, tools and support needed for further progress.”
“The World Council of Optometry and CooperVision share a vision of a planet where myopia is effectively managed and controlled, not just corrected at a young age,” said Gary Orsborn, OD, vice president of Global Professional, Medical & Clinical Affairs for CooperVision. “The WCO has a clear, resounding and respected voice within the global optometric community, and we are thrilled to partner with them on this important topic.”
