Childhood Myopia: Rising Concerns and Long-Term Solutions

Childhood myopia, or nearsightedness, has emerged as a growing public health issue, with evidence suggesting an alarming increase in its prevalence among children globally. Recent studies indicate that this condition, which affects a child's ability to see distant objects clearly, may be exacerbated by increased screen time and decreased outdoor activity. Experts urge that proactive measures, including regular eye examinations and lifestyle changes, are crucial in addressing this trend.

According to Mr. Sean Chen, a consultant ophthalmic and oculoplastic surgeon at Blackrock Health Galway Clinic, the prevalence of myopia in children is on the rise. He cites a systematic review of data from 14 countries which found significant increases in myopia rates in Europe from 2000 to 2010, with a further rise noted from 2011 to 2022. Chen states, "The consensus from studies suggests that myopia overall in childhood is indeed increasing, with reports indicating a rise of approximately 15% in children in Northern Ireland alone." This troubling trend correlates with observations made during the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in increased screen exposure and reduced outdoor time for children, further contributing to the rise in myopia.

Research indicates that myopia typically begins to develop around the age of 11 and progresses gradually. A recent survey conducted by Specsavers in July 2024 highlighted that a quarter of parents with children aged 4 to 16 had never arranged for an eye test, despite one in four reporting that their child had experienced vision-related issues at school. Kerril Hickey, chairman of Specsavers Ireland, emphasizes the importance of early detection, stating, “Myopia-control aims to slow down the acceleration. The myopia, once you have it, is going to proceed, but you’re trying to slow the rate of growth of the eye.”

The implications of untreated myopia can be severe, leading to complications such as retinal detachment and myopic maculopathy, conditions that can severely affect vision later in life. Chen warns that parents often underestimate the significance of regular eye assessments, leading to delayed diagnoses and treatments.

Pamela Lawlor, an optometrist at Specsavers and mother of a 10-year-old daughter named Hollie, exemplifies the importance of vigilance in monitoring children's vision. Lawlor, who has personal experience with myopia in her family, states, “I was always keeping an eye — saying ‘I can see this, can you see it?’” Her early intervention allowed for timely corrective measures, enabling Hollie to wear a specialized myopia-management lens and significantly improving her vision.

Experts recommend regular eye tests, ideally annually, to ensure children’s vision remains healthy throughout their developmental stages. They also suggest practical measures that parents can take to mitigate the risk of myopia. These include prioritizing outdoor play, adhering to the 30-30 rule (keeping screens at least 30 cm away and taking breaks every 30 minutes), and limiting excessive screen time.

The role of genetics in myopia cannot be overlooked, as children with myopic parents are at a greater risk of developing the condition. Chen notes that ethnicity also influences predisposition, with higher rates of myopia reported in East Asian populations.

Ultimately, addressing childhood myopia requires a multifaceted approach that includes public awareness campaigns, educational outreach to parents, and an emphasis on preventive measures. With myopia rates continuing to climb, it is imperative that communities, healthcare providers, and families work together to combat this growing epidemic and safeguard the visual health of future generations.