ABDO-funded research on children’s facial measurements published in leading international journal

ABDO-funded research on children’s facial measurements published in leading international journal

Ground-breaking research supported by the Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO) has been published in one of the world’s most respected vision science journals, providing important new evidence that is already shaping the future of children’s spectacle dispensing.

The first publication arising from an ABDO-funded research project investigating facial anthropometry in children has been accepted for publication in Ophthalmic and Physiological Optics (OPO), the peer-reviewed scientific journal of the College of Optometrists.

The study explores the relationship between children’s facial measurements and spectacle wear, generating objective evidence that can support more accurate frame design and fitting, improved comfort and better visual outcomes for young patients. The publication represents an important milestone for the profession by contributing new knowledge to an area where clinical decisions have traditionally relied on limited evidence.

This research is particularly important because it addresses a fundamental aspect of spectacle dispensing for children. Understanding facial anthropometry allows practitioners and manufacturers to better appreciate the anatomical factors that influence spectacle fit, comfort, stability and wearability. The findings have already informed clinical guidance, product development and educational resources across the profession.

The publication represents the first output from the ABDO-funded project and demonstrates the profession’s commitment to investing in research that delivers practical benefits for patients and members alike. It also reinforces the importance of supporting research activities that generate robust evidence and strengthen the scientific foundations of dispensing optics.

As the profession continues to evolve, studies such as this help ensure that practice is informed by evidence, supported by research and focused on achieving the best possible outcomes for patients. This publication marks an important contribution to that ambition and highlights the vital role that research plays in advancing the credibility, recognition and future development of the dispensing optician profession.

Alicia Thompson, ABDO research director, says, “Publication in Ophthalmic and Physiological Optics represents a significant milestone, not only for this project but for the wider dispensing profession. Peer-reviewed research provides the highest level of confidence that our clinical decisions are based on evidence rather than assumption.

“At ABDO, our research objective is based on professional practice continuing to evolve on firm scientific foundations, ultimately benefiting patients, practitioners, and the profession as a whole.

“On a personal note, I would like to thank all the children and their families who agreed to participate in this study, along with Dr Robert Cubbidge and Professor Nicola Logan (Aston University) for their invaluable guidance. Working with frame manufacturers to produce new designs for children based on evidence has been a career highlight for me, in seeing the research data brought to life and hearing from ABDO members that the improved fit and design features are bringing tangible benefit for our youngest patients.”

Read the full research here.