Dear Jack,

You are correct.  Neil Brooks is totally blind towards the fact -- and
the fact that even the ophthalmolgists do not "like" to use
the minus -- and will try to limit the strength if possible.

Here are some further supporting statments -- that the
minus lens is "risky" at best.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Subject:  The Effects of "Corrective" Lenses:  Insight and
     Comment From Eye Doctors

    No clinical or statistical studies have ever demonstrated the
long-term safety of a (minus) "corrective" lens.

    In fact, a certain percentage of doctors believe that -- as the
second-opinion -- "corrective" lenses (also known as
"compensatory" negative lenses) usually create dependency and
make the eyes move more rapidly in a negative refractive direction.

    These concerns have been voiced in the professional
literature by concerned doctors who support the concept
the "second opinion" to do work for the prevention of nearsightedness
with a plus lens.

    Here are sample excerpts from the professional literature voicing
concerns about the safety of "corrective" lenses:

    "The use of compensatory lenses to treat or neutralize the
symptoms does not correct the problem.    The current education and
training of eye care practitioners discourages preventive and
remedial treatment." R.L.  Gottlieb, Journal of Optometry and
Visual Development, 13(1):3-27, 1982.

    "The emphasis on compensatory lenses has posed a problem for
many years in our examinations.  These lenses do not correct
anything and may not serve the patient in his best interests over
a period of time." CJ.  Forkiortis, OEP Curriculum, 53:1, 1980

    "There are frequently ignored patterns of addiction to minus
lenses.  The typical prescription tends to overpower and fatigue
the visual system and what is often a transitory condition becomes
a lifelong situation which is likely to deteriorate with time." S.
Gallop, Journal of Behavioral Optometry, 5(5):115-120, 1994

    "Single-vision minus lenses for full-time use produce
accommodative insufficiency associated with additional symptoms
until the patient gets used to the lens.  This is usually
accompanied by a further increase in myopia and the cycle begins
anew." M.H.  Birnbaum, Review of Optometry, 110(21):  23-29, 1973.

    "Minus lenses are the most common approach, yet the least
likely to prevent further myopic progression.  Unfortunately, they
increase the near-point stress that is associated with
progression." B.  May, OEP Publications, A- 112, 1984.

Further, even second-opinion OD parents are insisting that
their OWN CHILDREN begin wearing the plus as soon
as their refractive status comes down to zero or SLIGHLY
minus.

Read Steve Leung's second-opnion at:

www.chinamyopia.org

Best,

Otis

YOUR version of Otis's fantasy, Jack ... not mine ... and not Otis's
... year after year after year.