Industry funded research increased 203% from 2014 to 2020

A new study evaluating trends in industry-funded research found that collaboration between industry and ophthalmology is “extensive and increasing in scope, with a few ophthalmologists receiving most of the funding.”

Reported industry research payments to ophthalmologists totaled $825,417,233 from 2014 to 2020, increasing 203% throughout the timeframe. The study authors noted that during the same period, total National Eye Institute research funding was $5,003,407,764, with a 6.6% increase.

Approximately 94% of funding came from the top 15 of 108 manufacturers, whereas top 10% of ophthalmologists received nearly 66% of all research dollars.

Anti–vascular endothelial growth factor agents, glaucoma treatments, and intraocular lenses were the highest-funded research products.

Reference
Kalva P, Kakkilaya A, Mekala P, et al. Trends and Characteristics of Industry Payments for Ophthalmology Research From 2014 to 2020. JAMA Ophthalmol. 2022;doi:10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2022.3986