Understanding Child Myopia: Causes, Prevention, and Management in 2024

By 2050, it is estimated that more than 50% of the world’s population will have myopia also known as short-sightedness. For Australia and New Zealand, the forecast rate of myopia by 2050 is estimated to be 55%, with an estimated 36% of the population currently affected. 

This eye condition causes distant objects to appear blurry while close objects remain clear. It typically begins in childhood and can progress rapidly if not managed effectively.

Understanding Child Myopia

Myopia occurs when the eyeball grows too long or the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of on it. According to the Australia and New Zealand Child Myopia Report 2022/23, myopia typically starts in childhood and progresses until the eye reaches its mature size.

Example of child with regular vision
Example of regular vision
Example of a child's vision suffering with Myopia
Example of a child's vision suffering with Myopia
What Causes Myopia in Children?
  1. Reduced Outdoor Activity: Children living in predominantly urban environments have a 2.6 times greater chance of developing myopia compared to those living in rural areas. Spending less time outdoors is a major contributing factor. Natural light exposure is crucial for healthy eye development. Children who spend more time indoors miss out on this essential aspect, increasing their risk of developing myopia. Research indicates that children need to spend at least 90 minutes per day outside to help prevent myopia from developing and progressing.
  2. Increased Screen Time: The modern lifestyle has seen a significant rise in the use of digital devices among children. Prolonged periods spent on screens—whether for gaming, studying, or entertainment—demand near vision focus causing digital eye strain, which can contribute to the development and progression of myopia. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated this issue, with extended periods of home confinement and increased screen use accelerating myopia progression in children. A large Chinese study found that myopia prevalence increased by nearly 400% in six-year-olds during the pandemic.
  3. Family History: Children with one or both parents who have myopia are at a higher risk of developing the condition themselves. While genetics play a significant role, environmental factors such as lifestyle can exacerbate the risk.
Impact on Children's Development

Myopia can severely affect a child’s academic performance and social interactions. About 80% of classroom learning is visual, making good vision essential for educational development. Undiagnosed myopia can lead to difficulties in reading the board, participating in sports, and overall reduced quality of life.

Preventive Measures and Management
  1. Encourage Outdoor Activities:
  • Daily Outdoor Time: Studies suggest that children should spend at least 90 minutes a day outdoors. This exposure to natural light can help reduce the risk of myopia and slow its progression​.
  • Balanced Screen Time: Limiting the duration of screen usage and incorporating regular breaks can help alleviate eye strain​.

 

2. Regular Eye Examinations:

  • Early Detection: Regular eye check-ups can help detect myopia early. The Australian and New Zealand optometry associations recommend that children have their first eye examination before starting school and continue regular check-ups as they grow​​.
  • Monitoring Progression: Continuous monitoring allows for timely interventions to manage and slow the progression of myopia​.

 

3. Myopia Management Options:

  • Special Lenses and Eye Drops: Options such as specially designed contact lenses, orthokeratology (ortho-k) lenses, and low-dose atropine eye drops have shown effectiveness in slowing myopia progression​.
  • Educational Interventions: Parents and caregivers should be informed about the importance of managing myopia and the available treatment options​.
Conclusion

Child myopia is on the rise, largely driven by lifestyle changes that include increased screen time and reduced outdoor activities. By encouraging more outdoor play, ensuring regular eye exams, and utilising available myopia management options, we can help mitigate the impact of this condition on children’s lives. It is crucial for parents, educators, and healthcare providers to collaborate in promoting practices that support healthy vision development. 

To learn more about Child Myopia, check out The Australia and New Zealand Child Myopia Report 2022/2023 – https://www.optometry.org.au/wp-content/uploads/National_news_images/2022/November/Reducing-the-Risk-to-Vision_Myopia-Report-202223.pdf

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