Ultraviolet Transmittance of Daily and Monthly Disposable Contact Lenses with UV Filters and Compliances with American National Standard Institute (ANSI) Classification

Abstract: Significance: Ultraviolet (UV)-blocking contact lenses (CLs) may limit the exposure to UV radiation and prevent UV-associated adverse effects. However, the effectiveness of daily disposable CLs (DDCLs) and monthly disposable CLs (MDCLs) in blocking UV radiation and how well they conform to the American National Standard Institute (ANSI) Z80.20 standard are not fully understood. Aim: This study aimed to determine the UV-blocking effectiveness of DDCLs and MDCLs available in Jordan and examine their compliance with the criteria specified by the ANSI. Approach: Visible and UV light transmittances of the CLs (DDCLs: 1-DAY ACUVUE® MOISTTM, Bausch + Lomb Biotrue®ONEday, ACUVUE® OASYSTM; MDCLs: Avaira VitalityTM, CooperVision® Biomedics® 55 sphere, Clear 58TM) were evaluated using a spectrophotometer. The data were analyzed using a one-way analysis of variance ANOVA followed by Tukey’s pairwise comparison test. Results: One-way ANOVA showed a significant difference between UV transmission from three DDCLs of different brands in the UVA, UVB, and UVC regions (P < 0.001). In the case of MDCLs, a significant difference was also observed in the UV transmission characteristics. Most importantly, all three DDCLs met the class 2 criteria of ANSI for UV-blocking CLs. Among the MDCLs, however, only one met these criteria. Conclusion: These findings suggest that the Acuvue OASYS is the best daily contact lens for blocking UV radiation. Among MDCLs, Avaira and Biomedics Sphere 55 are recommended for UV protection. All DDCLs met ANSI class 2 criteria for UV blockage.