Can Myopia Be Prevented?

Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a common refractive error that causes distant objects to appear blurry while close-up objects remain clear. This visual condition occurs when the eye's cornea or lens bends (refracts) light too much, focusing it in front of the retina instead of directly on it. As a result, distant objects appear out of focus.
 

Myopia typically begins in childhood and can worsen over time if left unchecked. It is a growing global health concern, with the World Health Organization estimating that nearly 50% of the world's population could be myopic by 2050.
 

Understanding the Causes of Myopia

The exact causes of myopia are not fully understood, but research suggests that both genetic and environmental factors play a role in its development and progression. Some of the key factors that contribute to myopia include:

• Genetics: Children with parents who are nearsighted are more likely to develop myopia themselves, indicating a strong genetic component.
• Excessive near-work: Spending prolonged periods of time engaging in close-up activities, such as reading, using digital devices, or working on computers, can increase the risk of myopia development and progression.
• Lack of outdoor time: Studies have shown that spending less time outdoors and more time indoors can contribute to the development of myopia in children.
• Rapid growth during childhood: The eye's growth and development during the critical years of childhood can also influence the onset and progression of myopia.

Can Myopia be Prevented?

While myopia cannot be completely prevented, there are various strategies and interventions that can help slow down or manage its progression. The key is to address the underlying risk factors and implement a comprehensive approach to myopia management.

• Encourage outdoor time: Increasing the amount of time children spend outdoors, even for just a few hours per day, has been shown to reduce the risk of myopia development and progression.
• Limit near-work activities: Encourage regular breaks from prolonged close-up activities, such as reading, using digital devices, and studying. Implement the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
• Promote good posture and ergonomics: Ensure that children maintain proper posture and distance when engaging in near-work activities to minimize eye strain and fatigue.
• Consider vision screenings: Regular eye exams and vision screenings can help detect myopia early, allowing for timely interventions and management.
• Educate on healthy eye habits: Teach children and parents about the importance of good eye health, including proper lighting, blinking, and taking regular breaks from near-work activities.

Myopia Management for Slowing Progression

If myopia is already present, there are several myopia management strategies that can help slow down its progression. Multifocal soft contact lenses are designed to provide different focal points within the lens, creating a peripheral defocus effect that can help slow the progression of myopia. These lenses are specifically tailored to the individual's prescription and eye shape, making them an effective option for myopia management.
 

Orthokeratology, or Ortho-K, involves the use of specially designed rigid gas-permeable contact lenses that temporarily reshape the cornea during overnight wear. This reshaping can help reduce the eye's refractive error, effectively slowing the progression of myopia.
 

Bifocal spectacles, which have a distance prescription in the upper portion of the lens and a near prescription in the lower portion, can help reduce the eye's focus on close-up activities, thereby slowing myopia progression.
 

Progressive additional lenses and peripheral defocus spectacles are designed to create a specific optical effect that reduces the eye's peripheral focus, which can contribute to myopia progression. These specialized lenses help to slow down the worsening of myopia.
 

Taking Proactive Steps to Safeguard Your Vision and Optimal Eye Health

While myopia cannot be completely prevented, there are several effective strategies and interventions that can help slow down its progression and manage the condition. By addressing the underlying risk factors, incorporating myopia management techniques, and promoting healthy eye habits, you can take proactive steps to safeguard your vision and maintain optimal eye health.
 

If you are concerned about your or your child’s myopia or are seeking professional guidance on myopia management, reach out to EMTC Optometry. We can provide personalized recommendations and tailor a comprehensive treatment plan to suit your unique needs. Visit our office in Ontario, Canada, or call (289) 207-0188 to book an appointment today.