What Is Myopia and Why Is It on the Rise?

Are You Noticing More Kids Wearing Glasses? Here’s Why!  

If it seems like more children than ever before are wearing glasses, you’re not imagining it. Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is increasing at an alarming rate worldwide. Studies estimate that by 2050, nearly half of the global population will be myopic! But why is this happening, and what can be done to slow it down?

Let’s dive into what myopia is, why it’s becoming so common, and what parents can do to help protect their child’s vision.

What Is Myopia?  

Myopia is a condition where distant objects appear blurry while close-up objects remain clear. It occurs when the eyeball is too long or the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it.

Symptoms of Myopia:  

• Blurry distance vision

• Squinting to see far away

• Frequent headaches or eye strain

• Holding books or screens too close

• Difficulty seeing the board in school

Why Is Myopia on the Rise?  

Over the past few decades, myopia has become significantly more common. But what’s driving this increase?

1. Increased Screen Time  

Children today spend more time on digital devices than ever before. Whether it’s online learning, video games, or scrolling through social media, excessive near work on screens can contribute to myopia progression.

2. Less Outdoor Time  

Studies show that children who spend more time outdoors have a lower risk of developing myopia. Sunlight helps regulate eye growth, and exposure to natural light may help slow myopia progression. Unfortunately, with busy schedules and screen-heavy lifestyles, kids are spending less time outside.

3. Genetics  

If one or both parents have myopia, there’s a higher chance their child will develop it too. While genetics play a role, environmental factors like screen time and outdoor activity levels can still make a significant difference.

4. Early Onset = Faster Progression  

Kids are developing myopia at younger ages than before, and the earlier it starts, the more severe it can become. Without proper management, high myopia can increase the risk of serious eye conditions like retinal detachment, glaucoma, and macular degeneration later in life.

What Can Be Done to Manage Myopia?  

The good news? Myopia management strategies can slow down its progression and help protect your child’s vision for the future.

Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) Lenses  

Special contact lenses worn overnight gently reshape the cornea, allowing for clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or contacts.

Pharmacologic Interventions  

Low-dose atropine drops can slow myopia progression, making them a great option for children with mild prescriptions or those who cannot wear contact lenses.

Multifocal Contact Lenses  

These specialty soft contact lenses correct vision while helping to slow myopia progression when worn consistently for at least 10 hours a day, six days a week.

Combination Therapy  

If a child’s myopia treatment isn’t providing optimal control, we may recommend a combination approach—such as adding atropine drops to contact lens treatment—based on a careful assessment.
 

Protect Your Child’s Vision Today  

At Clarendon Vision Advanced EyeCare, we specialize in myopia management and offer personalized solutions to slow its progression. The earlier myopia is detected and treated, the better the long-term results!