In this retrospective epidemiological study, records from the Contact Lens Department of SUNY College of Optometry were randomly selected and reviewed. An association between contact lens induced giant papillary conjunctivitis (GPC) and a FDA classified sub-category was found. Younger patients were shown to have a higher risk of developing GPC. Gender and tear film break-up time were not found to be associated with the condition. The mean replacement time for hydrogels was 10.8 +/- 9.2 months with no significant differences among contact lens polymer types. The GPC phenomenon was almost exclusively bilateral with a mean onset time of 31.4 months after commencing lens wear. A model for the development of GPC based on tear film interactions with the hydrogel lens surface is presented. A model for the tear film's interaction with the hydrogel contact lens in situ is offered.