Lens Output Rising

Rising sales of contact lenses to people with astigmatism means work for Cooper Cos.’ plant in Huntington Beach.

The Irvine maker of health products has added a second shift at the lens-making factory in the last year, increasing its work force to 137 from 89. The company expects the factory’s total production to increase 30% to nearly 1 million individual lenses, with a total retail value of about $95 million.

Company officials said recent improvements in technology have made lenses available for many individuals with astigmatism--a common eye problem that arises from faulty curvature of optical tissues and causes improper focusing.

*

Barbara Marsh covers health care for The Times. She can be reached at (714) 966-7762 and at barbara.marsh@latimes.com.