From advancements in the use of microscopes and lenses for eye examination during the Middle Ages through to the first cornea transplant and LASIK surgery during the 20th century, the clinical research landscape of ophthalmology has been evolving for centuries. Healthy Vision Month was established in 2003 by the United States National Eye Institute (NEI) to serve as a reminder for all Americans to prioritize their eye health. Since then, each year in May, the NEI encourages all individuals and organizations across the nation to celebrate Healthy Vision Month to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining healthy and safe vision.

As we approach May 2024, TFS HealthScience, a global CRO (Contract Research Organization), is kicking off the month by shining a spotlight on the TFS Ophthalmology CRO and its extensive initiatives within the field of ophthalmology. Read on to learn more about how TFS is contributing to improving eye health initiatives for patients globally!

The Global Burden of Eye Diseases

Healthy Vision Month is significant in raising awareness about the importance of regular eye check-ups and the risks associated with neglecting eye health. According to the NEI, more than 23 million Americans aged 18 and older have never had an eye exam, primarily because they don’t believe they have an eye problem. However, many eye diseases remain asymptomatic in the early stages and often require a comprehensive examination to be detected. It is estimated that by 2030, approximately 4.2 million people will have glaucoma, 11.5 million people will have diabetic retinopathy, and 2.8 million will have age-related macular degeneration.

Protective Measures to Maintaining Your Eye Health

The NEI recommends the following five steps to help ensure your eyes remain healthy:

1. Get a comprehensive dilated eye exam.
2. Use protective eyewear during sports and other recreational activities.
3. Know your family’s eye health history.
4. Wear sunglasses that block out 99-100% of UVA/UVB rays.
5. Live a healthy lifestyle by maintaining a healthy weight, eating healthy foods, abstaining from smoking, and managing chronic health conditions, such as diabetes.

TFS HealthScience Ophthalmology: A Clinical Research Leader Among Global CROs

TFS is a global leader among ophthalmology CROs, committed to actively raising public awareness about various eye diseases. Our mission is not only to deliver quality, affordable clinical research services across this therapeutic area, but also to disseminate education that assists in proper routine eye care, both internally and externally. This CRO is equipped with a fully dedicated global ophthalmology team of seasoned experts and specialists, including in-house ophthalmologists and clinical research professionals. The entirety of the team at TFS Ophthalmology holds extensive experience with ocular indications, enabling them to keep investigators, sponsors, and potential clients closely informed about product pipelines.

TFS Ophthalmology has an established presence with over 600 sites and has worked with more than 50 Key Opinion Leaders. They have conducted over 70 trials in 30 countries, impacting nearly 5,000 patients in the last five years across more than 10 ophthalmology indications. The global ophthalmology team at this CRO consists of four medical consultants and two in-house ophthalmologists, specializing in various areas such as retina, cornea, ocular inflammation, glaucoma, and oculoplastic. When ophthalmology sponsors choose TFS, they are supported by the company’s leading technology, full-service capabilities, and their vast network of trusted partners used to efficiently move studies efficiently throughout their development journey.

Download a one-pager on our ophthalmology expertise here. 

How TFS is Fueling Philanthropy Ophthalmology Clinical Research

Unique among many CROs, TFS pledges to make a donation to a charity associated with the theme of every event we attend through their Joining Hands for Health initiative. These charitable contributions are made on behalf of the conference attendees who visit our booth, transforming each connection and interaction into a charitable act. This gesture enables the company to directly aid research communities working towards a deeper understanding and developing solutions in a variety of health science fields. One of the commendable charities that TFS has lent its support to is EyeCare America, a public service program under the banner of the Foundation of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. This collaboration enables this CRO to extend direct support to research communities striving for a deeper understanding and innovative solutions promoting eye health and advancements in ophthalmology clinical research.

Sustainability Commitments at TFS

TFS also promotes community engagement within the field of ophthalmology and beyond by recognizing that environmental sustainability is a critical concern in today’s era of clinical research. TFS is committed to minimizing its environmental footprint, particularly during conferences and events, by implementing commendable measures to reduce or eliminate the use of paper and single-use plastic. By advocating environmental sustainability, they have positioned themselves as an industry leader not only in ophthalmology clinical research but also in sustainable practices. Their initiatives reflect their pledge to transition towards a more sustainable and environment-friendly operation.

Learn more about TFS’s sustainable practices and download the 2023 Sustainability report here!

Promoting Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

Lastly, alongside its philanthropic and sustainability efforts, TFS is a staunch advocate for diversity, equity, inclusion, and a sense of belonging. This CRO consistently strives to create a culture where all individuals, irrespective of their unique perspectives, are welcomed, valued, and respected. This initiative actively fosters an environment conducive to innovation, creativity, and productivity in clinical research. By empowering individuals from diverse backgrounds to voice their opinions and share their experiences, TFS ensures that their team can continually advance ophthalmology efforts well into the future. Visit our article here to learn more about TFS’s strategic approach to gender diversity in the company’s leadership!

In conclusion, TFS HealthScience CRO stands at the forefront of advancing ophthalmology clinical research. By combining their extensive expertise, commitment to health, philanthropy, sustainability efforts, and fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, TFS continues to make significant strides in promoting eye health. Their dedication to raising awareness, conducting cutting-edge research, and supporting philanthropic causes highlights their dedication to strengthening the global pursuit of improved eye care. As we look forward to Healthy Vision Month 2024, TFS serves as a leading example of an organization that truly embraces its spirit by promoting education and initiatives that help individuals worldwide maintain healthy vision.