Contact Lens Trial Slowed Myopia in Children
A three-year study found that children wearing specific multifocal lenses experienced slower progression of nearsightedness.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Children’s Health
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Visioneering Technologies completed the three-year PROTECT clinical trial, showing that its NaturalVue Multifocal 1 Day contact lens helped slow the progression of myopia in children aged 7 to 13. The findings were recently presented at the American Academy of Optometry annual meeting.
Why it matters
Myopia in children can lead to higher risks of vision-related health issues later in life, making effective interventions crucial for long-term eye health. This study evaluates a potential tool for managing the condition's progression during critical developmental years.
In a three-year clinical trial of 102 children, the NaturalVue Multifocal 1 Day contact lens resulted in 1.06 diopters less progression and 0.58 millimeters less axial elongation compared to a virtual control group.
The players
Visioneering Technologies
A developer of vision-correction technologies and the manufacturer of the NaturalVue Multifocal 1 Day contact lens.
American Academy of Optometry
A professional organization for eye care practitioners that hosts an annual meeting for sharing clinical research.
The details
The NaturalVue Multifocal 1 Day lens is designed to alter the optical focus of the eye, which researchers hypothesized would discourage the eyeball from lengthening. Axial elongation—the physical growth of the eyeball—is a primary driver of myopia progression in children. By managing this growth, 55% of participants in the study were able to maintain axial measurements within emmetropic, or normal-vision, benchmarks.
Timeline
The clinical trial spanned from 2023 through 2026.
Results were presented on September 30, 2026.
Health Landscape
This study adds to the growing body of research focused on myopia control through specialized contact lens designs. It aligns with broader efforts to transition from merely correcting nearsightedness to actively slowing the anatomical progression of the condition in pediatric populations.
If you are concerned about the rate at which your child's eyesight is changing, these results provide a relevant topic to discuss with an optometrist or ophthalmologist. Ask your eye care provider whether myopia management options are appropriate based on your child's specific exam history.
The takeaway
The PROTECT trial suggests that specific multifocal contact lenses may help reduce the physical elongation of the eye in children. Parents should track their child's refractive prescription over time and consult with a specialist about available evidence-based management strategies.
Further reading
For more information on managing vision in younger years, explore the Children’s Health section.
More information
Find further corporate and product details on the Visioneering Technologies company website.
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