Public Health Authorities Warn Over Latest Fashion Fad

Public health authorities warn over latest fashion fad

BANGKOK: -- Local young people have been warned against one of the latest overseas trends -- fashion contact lenses that can change the colour and look of the eyes from the subtle to the bizarre.

Health authorities say those who buy such lenses, often online, without opthalmologist's advice may suffer eye infections and blindness.

Public Health Minister Pinij Jarusombat said the cost of the special contact lenses ranged from 400-2,000 baht.

He said while the fashion was popular in Japan among other countries, the wearing of contact lenses should really be limited to those with impaired eyesight.

The buying of contact lenses without professional supervision could lead to inflammation, irritation and infection, he warned.

“People's eyesight is very important. The cost of treatment is very high and people need to consult specialists before deciding to purchase contact lenses,” Mr. Pinij said.

Pakdi Photisiri, secretary general of Thailand’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA), said that contact lenses were not classified as medical equipment, so their sale was not under FDA control.

However, he said the FDA would direct the issue to the Office of the Consumer Protection Board as it was authorized to check the labelling and promotion of the lenses which were categorized as a beauty product.

Director general of the Department of Medical Service, Dr. Chatri Banchuin, said that poor hygiene could also cause eye disease among contact lens wearers, with severe infections leading to possible blindness.

People without eyesight problems should not wear them, Dr. Chatri said.

--TNA 2006-01-19