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Repeated Stress Can Speed Up Aging in the Eye and Glaucoma

Fighting Blindness Canada

A new research study published in the journal Aging Cell, shows that stress including higher eye pressure from Glaucoma can cause changes in retinal cells similar to what is seen in natural aging.

 A University of California Irvine study showed that the repeated high eye pressure stress causes premature aging in young retinal tissue. Some of the changes that occurred affected the epigenetics of the cell. Epigenetic changes impact what genes turn on and off. As we age, epigenetic changes can affect how different genes work and thus how a cell or organ work.

Scientists now have a new tool to measuring stress in the eye: measuring epigenetic changes. It’s also possible that if these epigenetic changes are halted or reversed, it could be a potential treatment for glaucoma. While more research will need to be done, this research gives us a better understanding of the causes of glaucoma.

Lacoste Presents Spring/Summer 2023 Active Mini-Me Sunglasses

Celebrating the style bond between father and son, Lacoste introduces the Spring/Summer 2023 new mini-me sunglasses. Reflecting the aesthetics and dynamic attitude of the Active line model designed for an adult audience, this matching style will make little ones feel as cool as their dad!

The new sunglasses epitomize the brand’s signature design approach, standing at the crossroads between sports heritage and urban allure. Trendy and casual, they are crafted in lightweight plant-based resin and enhanced with bold Lacoste branding on the temples.

L6004S From the tennis court to the streets, the sunglass style for him perfectly blends the typical features of the Active Line collection: fashion-sport fusion.

L3656S These mini-me sunglasses celebrate the style bond between father and son through their casual, dynamic look borrowed from the adult models. The construction, crafted in plant-based resin, boasts a modified rectangular front completed by squared temples featuring bold Lacoste branding.

Distribution by Marchon Eyewear.

OGS Marks World Optometry Week with Fundraising Campaign

As the industry gears up to celebrate World Optometry Week and World Optometry Day next week, Optometry Giving Sight (OGS) today announced its latest campaign, ”Give Sight. Change Lives.” Through the effort, OGS seeks to raise awareness of its global impact and encourage donations that will enable the organization to continue supporting projects focused on long-term solutions.

During World Optometry Week, the campaign will feature results from several projects for which it has provided funding. Examples include a Liberian teacher who received his first-ever pair of glasses thanks to an integrated school eye health initiative led by EYElliance, as well as the Malawi School of Optometry, which was co-founded by OGS and last year received funding to purchase a much-needed vehicle to transport optometrists and students to work at various rural clinics.

“World Optometry Week encourages eye care professionals to help improve access to eye care globally and provide education and training for all optometrists, which is completely aligned with what we do every day,” said Lois Schoenbrun, CAE (Ret.), FAAO, OGS Executive Director, North America. “OGS is the only organization dedicated to eradicating uncorrected refractive error through the growth and expansion of optometry around the world. That work is made possible with funding almost entirely from eye care professionals, optometry practices, and companies working within this industry. We hope new and existing donors who are inspired to make a difference during World Optometry Week will consider doing so with us—OGS is for optometry, by optometry.”

To make a donation, visit givingsight.org/world-optometry-day.

Click HERE for the full press release.

Craze Guard for the Optical

A Minnesota-based optician has developed a new innovative tool called Craze Guard. The patented device, made from proprietary heat resistant materials, helps ward off lens crazing while keeping the bridge and temples exposed for heating. Craze Guard will protect your reputation and pay for itself after just one use. $69.99.

Available to Canadian opticals at  www.cascadeoptics.com.

The Optical Trade Show at Seneca College: Your One Pit-stop to the Optical Zeitgeist

By Balneet Kaur

On March 7 at Seneca College, the Optical Trade Show held their long awaited event featuring the latest technology, products, designs and services that add to the ever dynamic optical industry.

The Trade Show, hosted by the College and sponsored by brands such as Marchon and Specsavers, invites students and veterans of the industry alike, where accomplished opticians, optical companies and industry professionals set up their kiosks and introduce the latest product, service and technology that they have to offer. For student opticians, the trade show is a propitious opportunity to not only gain knowledge of the ever changing range of products and services in the optical market, but also to network with industry specialists.

As for the professionals of the optical world, the trade show serves as a great way to meet the future of the industry that they’ve headlined for so many years.

Among the exhibitors, close to 30 industry veterans at the Optical Trade Show, many exhibited unique and modern solutions to the ever evolving optical issues.

From businesses specializing in low vision needs to companies devoted to reducing the impact of optical accessories and solutions on the environment, there was something new to learn about from every exhibitor. The College of Opticians of Ontario and the Ontario Opticians Association were also in attendance.

The evening closed with a fun fashion show by the students of Opticianry, followed by industry hosts giving out exciting prizes to lucky draw winners.

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