Myopia, also known as near-sightedness, causes people to have difficulty seeing objects that are far away. Myopia has become increasingly prevalent in children in recent years, with intense near work (usually screen time) being a key factor. It is estimated that half the world’s population will be myopic by 2050.
Myopia not only causes blur and the need for glasses, but is a known direct risk factor for cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration and retinal detachment.
Researchers have discovered two management options that slow the progression of myopia. One is optically (with contact lenses or glasses), and the other is pharmaceutically (with prescription eye drops). Both of these options change how light focuses on the peripheral retina of our eye, giving less stimulus for the eye to grow. In the words of Brien Holden, one of the most prominent researchers in myopia control, “We don’t know everything about myopia but we know enough that we should be doing something about it”.
We use a step-wise approach on myopia prevention, including:
- Initial consultation
- Assessment of risk for onset and progression of myopia
- Management strategies
- Follow-up
Ask one of our eye care professionals today how one of the following options may help prevent progression of your child’s myopia:
- Orthokeratology
- Bifocal Glasses
- MiSight daily disposable contact lenses
- Low dose atropine therapy