Understanding Myopia: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions

What is Myopia?

Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is a refractive error where distant objects appear blurry while close objects are seen clearly. This condition occurs when the eyeball is too long or the cornea is too curved, causing light rays to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), myopia is rapidly becoming a global public health issue. By 2050, it is projected that half of the world’s population may be affected by some degree of myopia. The rising prevalence is particularly alarming in East and Southeast Asia, where up to 80-90% of schoolchildren are affected in urban areas.
(Source: WHO Report on Myopia)

This dramatic increase is associated with lifestyle changes, including increased screen time, less outdoor activity, and higher educational demands in early childhood.

Causes of Myopia

Several factors contribute to the development of myopia:

• Genetics – Children with myopic parents are at higher risk.

• Environmental factors – Limited exposure to natural daylight and excessive near work.

• Prolonged digital device use – Linked to digital eye strain and myopia progression.
  
  

Progressive and High Myopia

While mild to moderate myopia can be managed with glasses or contact lenses, progressive or high myopia (more than -6.00 diopters) poses more serious risks. Individuals with high myopia are at greater risk of developing retinal detachment, glaucoma, and posterior subcapsular cataracts (PSC) — a condition supported by research showing a correlation between high myopia and PSC formation.
(Source: PubMed, PMID: 31116165)

Myopia Control in Children

Controlling myopia progression in children is crucial to preventing future eye complications. Proven strategies include:

• Spending more time outdoors—at least 2 hours a day in natural sunlight.

• Specialized optical lenses include multifocal glasses or orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses.
  
  

Living with Myopia

Living with myopia necessitates regular eye examinations to monitor any changes in vision. It is also essential to adopt lifestyle habits that promote ocular health, such as taking breaks from screen time, practicing the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds), and engaging in outdoor activities. With appropriate management and proactive care, individuals with myopia can lead healthy lives, minimizing the impact of this refractive error on their daily activities.

myopia clinic
myopia and hypermetropia
myopia glasses
myopia nearsightedness
myopia lens
myopia meaning
myopia surgery
myopia treatment
myopia is corrected by
myopia eye
myopia vision looks like
myopia correction lens