Myopia Management

Nearsightedness or myopia makes it difficult to see things across the room or far away.  If your child is unable to see objects that are far away clearly, they are referred to as nearsighted or having myopia.

Myopia often occurs because the eyeball grows too long during childhood.  Squinting eyes, headaches, eye strain and eye fatigue maybe symptoms of myopia.  But it’s important to keep in mind that some children may never complain of any symptoms and that is why early childhood eye exams are greatly encouraged.   Early childhood eye exams will ensure that your child’s vision problems (if any) are detected early, and treated properly.

Your child may have myopia because of genetics or lifestyle factors.  Children whose parents are nearsighted have a higher risk of being nearsighted.

Myopia (nearsightedness) typically begins in childhood and although it may stabilize, it can continue to progress with age.  Children who spend time indoors, close-up activities or hobbies (such as reading, gaming, electronics, hand-held devices, phones, etc.) may have a higher risk of being nearsighted or having myopia.  Low levels of vitamin D intake because of poor lighting, reduced time spent outdoors can also increase the risk of myopia.

Myopia is a major concern, as it is predicted that about 1.5 billion people worldwide are nearsighted.  Some countries in Asia, have up to 80% of their population having myopia.  And in the U.S. the prevalence of myopia is about 42%.

Even more concerning, is that the rate of myopia is increasing rapidly globally.  And it is estimated by the year 2050, roughly half the world population will be nearsighted.