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Diet Increases Blacks’ Risk of Diabetic Eye Woes

African-Americans with type 1 diabetes and diets high in calories and sodium appear to be at higher risk for vision-robbing, diabetes-related eye disease than those with healthier diets, a new study found.

Diabetic African-Americans who consumed the most calories were 39% more likely to develop visionthreatening retinopathy over a six-year period than those who ate the lowest calorie diets (OR 1.39; 95% CI 1.11 to 1.75; P=0.004), according to a Jan. 11 online report in the Archives of Ophthalmology.

Those who ate high-sodium diets were 31% more likely to suffer macular edema (OR 1.31, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.66, P=0.03).

“In African-American patients with type 1 diabetes, high caloric and sodium intakes are significant and independent risk factors for progression to severe forms of diabetic retinopathy,” wrote Monique S. Roy, MD, of the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, and Malvin N. Janal, PhD, of New York University College of Dentistry.

“These results suggest that low caloric and sodium intakes in African-American individuals with type 1 diabetes mellitus may have a beneficial effect on the progression of diabetic retinopathy and thus might be part of dietary recommendations for this population.”

The condition, which occurs when new blood vessels grow in the retina (proliferative retinopathy) or fluid leaks into the macula (macular edema), is the leading cause of blindness among U.S diabetics ages 20 to 64.

Few studies have explored the relationship between diet and diabetic retinopathy, and no studies had previously explored this issue in African-Americans, the authors wrote.

Roy and Janal followed 469 African-American diabetics from New Jersey between 1993 and 1998 to see how the participants’ diets corresponded to the progression of diabetes-related eye disease.  

Dermalook: Behind Cutting-Edge Optical Cosmetics

In an exclusive interview with Ms. Elizabeth Hill, Egma’s Business Unit Manager for Eye Care, talks all about the Middle East launch of breakthrough products of Dermalook, the brand that defines ultimate solutions in optical cosmetics

Over the years, cosmetologist Juan Manzano dedicated to the research and development of new cosmetic formulas exclusively containing ingredients that offer the user ocular health benefits. In Barcelona in 2006, he successfully founded Dermalook Optical Cosmetics, the world's first line of cosmetic products created exclusively for ophthalmological healthcare, also referred to as optical cosmetics.

Ms. Elizabeth Hill, EGMA’s Business Unit Manager for Eye Care explained, “Other than a brand, Dermalook is a project that aims to offer solutions to a series of needs not yet attended to, or partially attended to in the field of cosmetics. The company's philosophy is to avoid the use of any preservatives, emulsions, artificial colourings, perfumes while favouring active ingredients from prime sources in their formulas.”

Moreover, this project introduces a completely new and unique variation of distributing cosmetics. Dermalook is the first brand to be sold exclusively in optical stores and specialised ophthalmological clinics.

Dermalook’s one-of-its-kind optical cosmetics are now growing from Spain to the Middle East as EGMA, the leading giant in the optical industry in the region, takes the role of being the Agent for Dermalook across Middle East, North Africa, South Africa, Pacific Islands and India.

And, we asked why EGMA initiate such a step in introducing optical cosmetics in this market, she answered, “At EGMA we always strive towards success, whether it is customer service based or a new business venture. Particularly with Dermalook we saw an opportunity to bring something innovative to the market. It creates a new category in Optical and Eye care stores, the same as sunglasses and contact lenses. This category capitalises on the consumer base, increasing the value per customer and generating additional income, without taking away from anything existing in the stores.”

Dermalook has the competitive advantage in being the world's first range of optical cosmetic and creator of 100% organic medical cosmetic products that are designed to preserve the natural equilibrium of the eyes, not cause any eye irritation, allergies or redness. As of the moment, Dermalook has five product ranges wherein three product ranges are now in the market and two of which will be introduced later this year. According to Ms. Hill, these products include Eyeliner, Soft Silicon Mascara and Butterfly Mascara.

The hypoallergenic eyeliner is specially formulated for those with any type of sensitivity allergies. It contains cocoglycerides, a vegetable based ingredient that does not irritate the ocular mucus and achieves an intense, long lasting colour application, giving a beautiful gaze that will not harm the eyes. The eyeliner comes in three colours: black, blue and brown.

On the other hand, the Soft Silicon Mascara is natural and hypoallergenic mascara that has been developed with natural waxes and silicon. Some brands use rayon or nylon fibres to thicken their formulas, but when these mascaras dry, the normal friction can cause residues to dislodge and fall into eyes resulting in irritation and itchiness and damaging contact lenses if worn. Dermalook's Soft Silicon Mascara clings to the eyelash without falling off for hours, giving a unique feeling of comfort and cleanliness. It contains chamomile, Panthenol and Vitamin E to soften, protect and promote lashes’ longer life.

Whereas, the Butterfly Mascara is X-tra Volume mascara that gives lashes three times more volume than the natural-effect mascara. It has the same formula used in Soft Silicon Mascara but with added density and with incorporated latex brush that applied the product in a professional manner, giving lashes a spectacular look, three times more volume and three times healthier.

Ms. Hill revealed that later this year he products that are coming are Shadow and Crystal. Dermalook offers new hypoallergenic eye shadow collection that makes consumers feel beautiful while caring for the eyes. Made of Argan Oil, its creamy texture is easy to apply, forming a fine film of colour with a superior coverage that lasts long. It provides maximum moisturising of the eyelid area and, slows the eyelids aging process. This product has comfortable adherence in all skin types.

Crystal, a hair-loss treatment mascara containing Keravis, is a powerful fortifying agent that helps regenerate and nourish eyelashes helping them become stronger and thicker in just a few weeks. Keravis is an active ingredient that reinforces, lubricates and protects lashes from inside out. This mascara is clear when applied, providing fresh and bright way to define eyelashes with a natural look and takes treatment cosmetics and ocular health one step further without leaving beauty by the wayside.

With Dermalook’s ranges that are designed for all females with sensitive eyes and for those who wear contact lenses, women have found the right products to pamper their eyes whilst looking beautiful. As Ms. Hill put it, “Healthy eyes are beautiful eyes.”

All products by Dermalook are Ophtalmologically and Dermatologically tested in the leading research institutes in Europe EVIC Hispania and Instituto Barraquer. Dermalook is now exclusively available in Optical and Eye Care centers.

Optylife: The Art of Vision

For those who only accept the best in life comes Optylife, a new concept in luxury optical wear.

Optylife is a unique family of eyewear boutiques specifically created by Kefan Optics, the most trusted name in the regional industry. Optylife serves the upper reaches of luxury-minded clientele with a range of carefully selected eyewear designs and world-class service.

For a high-powered lifestyle

Our name says it all: Optylife offers eyewear for a rare type of lifestyle and all its facets: elegant soirees, a high-powered social life, an impactful work environment, spectator sporting events and exclusive resorts.

Optylife helps its customers see and be seen with just the right looks. Our highly trained consultants carefully choose the right additions to an eyewear wardrobe that matches all of their needs. And we are constantly updating our selection with a breathtaking array of the hottest new designers and styles.

A name you can trust

Optylife first opened its doors in Kuwait’s exclusive Salhiya Towers complex, home of leading brands such as Cartier, Chanel, Dior and Versace, In 2001. Its brand of optimal luxury is how being beckoned by the most exclusive retail centres throughout Kuwait and the Middle East.

The reason is simple: the name behind Optylife. Kefan Optics has been recognised as the region’s eyewear leader for over 30 years.

Kefan is a family-owned business which truly understands the unique needs and lifestyles of the Middle East . And it is synoymous with quality. Kefan is the exclusive manufacturer of premium Nikon optical lenses in the Middle East, and the area’s lead retailer. Kefan is known for its exacting standards, unmatched quality of customer care, and innovative business practices.

This positions Optylife as the clear leader in a very rarefied niche market: super-luxury eyewear and accessories.

Quite simply, Optylife wil transform luxury optical fashion... before your very eyes.  

Royal warrant holder rolls out new IT system

Roger Pope and Partners, Royal Warrant holders, have just rolled out the first Optisoft Enterprise 7 practice management IT system at their New Cavendish Street practice, near London’s Harley Street.

The Windows 7 system features software for the consulting room, OptomNotes™, which is expected to not only save time but also to provide a smooth path for referrals from Harley Street, believes Stephen Hopkinson, Director of Roger Pope and Partners.

Apart from the consulting room software the Optisoft system replaces the manual appointments books and paper record cards, with eleven staff trained to use these first modules to the system.

“One of the reasons for moving to a computerised system was that we were running out of space for the traditional card system, but also we liked the fact that we could take modules on as we need them and we are starting gradually as the staff get used to the system. The roll-out has been very straightforward and we are finding it very easy to use. We like the fact that Optisoft are very realistic about our needs and have shown a lot of integrity in selling us just what we require,” added Stephen.

before your very eyes. www.optisoft.co.uk 

13th International Cornea & Contact Lens Congress (ICCLC)

            

The Cornea & Contact Lens Society of Australia is pleased to announce the International Cornea & Contact Lens Congress (ICCLC) will take place in Sydney, Australia from 9-11 October 2010.

The congress will be held at the beautiful Sheraton on the Park hotel, which has an ideal location adjacent to Hyde Park in Sydney’s central retail and business district. This education rich congress has an impressive line-up of internationally acclaimed speakers including:

Earl Smith, USA

Lynne Speedwell, UK

Loretta Szczotka-Flynn, USA

Kathy Dumbleton, Canada

Patrick Caroline, USA

along with many local contact lens and cornea luminaries. If you would like more information on attending this world class Congress as a delegate, exhibitor or sponsor please contact the conference organisers:

Leading Edge Conferences

Hannah Scott-Young:

syh@leadingedgegroup.com.au

Online registrations opening April 2010 at http://www.cclsa.org.au 

منزلاً لمجلتنا "آيزون"

أحياناً بين جمود الحياة، وثقل الأخبار وكتابات السياسة وحروبها وموت الأبرياء وصعود قائمة الأغنياء في دروب الحياة، يحتاج الإنسان أن يتهادى إلى ضفة مريحة من أطياف القراءة...

تنتابني الرغبة أحياناً في الفرار من زوابع الحاضر إلى واحة من الحلم الواعي الذي يربض على رُبى التفاؤل الجميل، تمارسه النفس في سلام وتفاؤل، احتجاجاً على ما تراه من الإحباط في عالمنا الحزين لذلك اخترت العيون وجمالها منزلاً لمجلتنا "آيزون" لهذا العدد.

أكاد أجزم أنه لا يوجد قوم تغنّوا بالعين، شعراؤهم وعشاقهم.. أطباؤهم وعلماؤهم.. فقراؤهم وأغنياؤهم.. مثل قومنا العرب العاربة منهم والمستعربة!

العين عند أمتنا محور الذكاء.. ومنبع الجمال، والموحية بالحب!

ولأننا نعمل في جمال العيون، أقف عند دكتورنا وشاعرنا الأديب غازي القصيبي في بيته الشهير:



وهذه ضحكات الفجر في الخبر

أم أنها العين كم في العين من حَوَرُ



والعيون تُمرَض أما أنها تَمرَض فهذا أمر يشخصه أطباء العيون فيعالجونها بأمر الله إما نحن معشر البصريات، علينا إن نساعد أهل المهنة فنتوجها بأحلى النظارات والعدسات فنحن مثل مصممي الأزياء: مهنتنا إظهار الجمال . فلندعْ العيون تتكلم عندما تتعطل لغة الكلام.

 

 

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