Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, occurs when the eye grows too long from front to back. When this happens, light focuses in front of the retina instead of directly on it, causing distant objects to appear blurry.
The exact cause of myopia is not fully understood. However, research suggests that bothenvironmental and genetic factors play a role. Environmental factors may include limited time spentoutdoors and increased amounts of near work, such as reading or screen use. Genetics alsocontribute, as children with one or both parents who have myopia are more likely to develop myopiathemselves.
Myopia is becoming increasingly common worldwide. It is estimated that approximately 50% ofthe global population may have myopia by the year 2050.
Myopia Progression
In many children, the degree of myopia increases over time as the eyes continue to grow. Thisprogression most commonly occurs between the ages of 9 and 18, although some children maydevelop myopia at a younger age or experience faster-than-average progression.
Risks Associated with Myopia
Myopia is associated with an increased risk of developing certain eye diseases later in life, includingretinal detachment, cataracts, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. In general, the higher thelevel of myopia, the greater the risk of these conditions. For this reason, there is strong clinicalinterest in slowing the progression of myopia during childhood.
Evidence in the scientific literature suggests that certain optical designs may help slow theprogression of nearsightedness (myopia) in children. Myopia control treatments are intended to slowthe rate of myopia progression. They do not reverse myopia, eliminate the need for glasses or contactlenses, or guarantee a specific outcome. Individual results vary. There are two FDA-approved myopia control methods offered in this Myopia Control Clinic. Each has its own benefits and limitations. Your child’s recommended treatment(s) will be marked bythe doctor