Dubbed "The Optometrists in a Rapidly Changing World of Eye Care: Challenges in Managing Refractive Problems," Dr. Cynthia del Mundo, PCO president says, "There are now scientific evidences that support new treatment modalities for nearsightedness. For example, there is no overwhelming proof that shows the benefit of using Progressive Addition Lenses in children to reduce the progression of their nearsightedness, specifically those with impaired accommodation or near focusing."

"There are also recent data that highlight that breast-fed children are less prone to nearsightedness than their counterparts. Genes for nearsightedness have also been identified. Likewise, control of environmental factors which contribute to the onset and abnormal progression of nearsightedness means optometrists can now provide the best solution to correct the problem," she further adds.

Moreoever, those who attended the annual meeting discovered new ways of evaluating and treating farsightedness and astigmatism – form childhood to adulthood; and new technologies and approaches of correcting the refractive and other visual problems of the eyes, including those that have already been corrected surgically, i.e. laser vision correction, and conductive keratoplasty.

It was also the first time in the history of optometry in the country that diplomate titles were conferred to outstanding professionals who have attained a higher level of competency than that required by law, a competency recognized by peers in an area of specialization, specifically Orthoptics and Pediatric Optometry, Cornea and Contact Lenses, and Low Vision and Vision Rehabilitation.

"This event marks an era in the optometric history where fields of specialization have been developed," says Dr. del Mundo with excitement. "These diplomats are now recognized as experts in their fields and they have committed to continuously add new knowledge in the field through research and to mentor other optometrists. The public is definitely the final beneficiary of this."