MYOPIA MANAGEMENT
Myopia, also known as short-sightedness, is a common condition that typically develops in childhood between the ages of 6 and 13. But don't worry, we're here to help slow down its progression, which can save children from costly lenses and complications later in life.
THE GLOBAL MYOPIA EPIDEMIC
In the last 50 years, the prevalence of myopia in the UK has more than doubled – from 10% in the 1960s to 23% in the 2000s. Experts predict that by 2050 more than 50% of the global population will be myopic – shortsighted.
WHY IS THIS HAPPENING?
There has been a lot of research into the causes of this increase, but there are still unanswered questions. So far, studies have suggested that children are at more risk of developing myopia if they:
Intense studying
Study for long periods at high intensity.
Near work
Spend prolonged periods at near work.
Inherited
Have a family history of myopia.
WHY DOES THIS MATTER?
If you are myopic, you are at greater risk of developing a number of eye diseases in later life. The more myopic you are, the greater the risk. However, if we can reduce the end amount of myopia you have, the risk will be lower.
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Cataract
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Retinal Detachment
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Glaucoma
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Myopic Maculopathy
HOW CAN I PREVENT MY CHILD FROM BECOMING MYOPIC?
Help them to spend time outdoors. In studies, spending 40 to 80 minutes per day outside has been shown to reduce the chance of children becoming myopic.
ARE THERE TREATMENTS FOR MYOPIA?
The progression of myopia can be managed with options like myopia-control contact lenses, ortho-k, and lifestyle changes such as more outdoor time.
