Myopia (Nearsightedness)

Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is a refractive error where distant objects appear blurry while close objects remain clear. It occurs when the eyeball is too long or the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of on it.

Myopia typically develops in childhood and can progress until the late teens or early twenties. The global prevalence of myopia is increasing dramatically, with studies predicting that nearly 50% of the world's population will be myopic by 2050 (study published in journal "ophthalmology" in 2016). Without appropriate management, prescriptions can change aggressively as vision declines.

While glasses and contact lenses correct myopic vision, myopia control aims to slow the progression of nearsightedness, particularly in children. This is important because:

• Reduces future eye health risks: High myopia increases the risk of serious eye conditions like retinal detachment, glaucoma, and cataracts
• Limits prescription increases: Slowing progression means less dependence on thick lenses
• Improves quality of life: Better long-term vision outcomes and more lifestyle options