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CIBA Vision has launched Air Optics Aqua Multifocal, a silicone hydrogel lens with three add powers, offering practitioners a viable solution for patients with emerging presbyopia.

The launch aims to tackle contact lens dropout in the over-40s, with research showing that this is largely related to patient dissatisfaction with vision and comfort of the current lens options.

CIBA said that in trials Air Optix Aqua Multifocal gave a 86 per cent first-fit success rate among emerging presbyopes and a 90 per cent preference rate among these patients.

Mark Draper, CIBA's head of professional affairs, said the current 5 per cent penetration rate for multifocal fits in the UK was a 'massive' growth opportunity for practitioners. 'Presbyopia typically occurs from 40 to 45 years of age. With an ageing population, what we are seeing is that in less then 20 years the average person in the population will be around that age. It will become a much more common problem and practitioners will be looking for a high-performing multifocal contact lens that successfully meets the needs of these patients.

'With the introduction of Air Optix Multifocal, presbyopic consumers finally have the option they have been waiting for - a comfortable, healthy contact lens that offers superior vision at all distances for emerging presbyopes and features optimised add power for stages of presbyopia.'

Point of sale material will be available, with increased focus on consumer lifestyle and the impact contact lens wear can have.

In February CIBA will hold six roadshows in the UK and Ireland. Topics include the examination of the reasons for CL dropout among presbyopes and a look at the businesses opportunities for practitioners in this category. Optometrist and staff development consultant Sarah Morgan will give a presentation on the psychology of presbyopia and how best to communicate with presbyopes.

The meetings will offer fitting guidelines, also available online on the CIBA Academy website, as well being available on CD-Rom.

Air Optix Aqua Multifocal lenses have a Dk/t of 138 @ -3.00D, and are recommended for monthly replacement. They are approved for daily wear and up to six nights' extended wear, from +6.00D to -10.00D in 0.25D steps, with a 14.2mm diameter and 8.6mm base curve. The lenses come in Lo add, Med add and Hi add designs.

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