WSPOS 2025 Consensus Statement Endorses Red-Light Therapy for Myopia

On June 16, 2025, the World Society of Paediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus (WSPOS) announced the inclusion of repeated low-level red-light (RLRL) therapy in its 2025 Myopia Consensus Statement. This endorsement marks a significant milestone in the management of myopia, particularly among children, as it highlights RLRL therapy as an evidence-based intervention aimed at slowing the progression of this increasingly prevalent eye condition.

The statement reflects a growing body of clinical evidence supporting the efficacy of RLRL therapy. According to Eyerising International, a leading provider of this technology based in Australia, multiple studies and meta-analyses indicate that RLRL therapy is effective not only in slowing axial elongation but also in potentially shortening axial length. The systematic review cited in the WSPOS statement notes that the incidence of side effects from RLRL therapy is the lowest of all myopia control interventions, estimated at only 0.088 per 100 patient-years.

Mr. Jason Sun, Managing Director of Eyerising International, expressed his enthusiasm regarding the endorsement, stating, "This endorsement by WSPOS represents a landmark moment in the evolution of paediatric myopia control. It reflects a growing recognition of RLRL’s therapeutic effect and progress over the past few years. We are proud to be pioneering this therapy with a rigorous commitment to safety, science, and innovation."

The Eyerising Myopia Management Device, which utilizes RLRL therapy, is currently the only patented device of its kind with international regulatory approval outside of China. It is now available in over 40 countries, including Australia, and clinical studies are ongoing to evaluate its efficacy in non-Chinese populations, with promising results reported from countries such as Japan and Spain.

The inclusion of RLRL therapy in the WSPOS Consensus Statement serves as a foundational reference for clinicians, researchers, and public health officials around the world. The statement emphasizes the need for innovative approaches to combat myopia, which has seen a dramatic rise in prevalence globally, particularly in children. The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported that myopia affects nearly 30% of the global population, a figure projected to increase significantly in the coming decades.

Despite its promising potential, the adoption of RLRL therapy is not without its challenges. Critics point to the need for further long-term studies to solidify its efficacy across diverse populations and to establish comprehensive treatment protocols. Dr. Sarah Johnson, a Professor of Ophthalmology at Stanford University, commented on the topic, stating, "While the initial findings are encouraging, we must remain cautious and ensure that ongoing research continues to validate these findings for broader clinical application."

Historically, myopia management has relied heavily on traditional methods such as corrective lenses and orthokeratology. However, as the prevalence of myopia continues to rise, the need for innovative solutions has become increasingly urgent. The endorsement of RLRL therapy by a reputable organization like WSPOS signifies a shift towards more diverse treatment options in the fight against myopia.

Looking ahead, the implications of this development are significant. The WSPOS Consensus Statement may catalyze further research into light-based therapies and their applications in ophthalmology. As more healthcare professionals become informed about the potential of RLRL therapy, its integration into clinical practice could lead to improved outcomes for millions of children at risk of myopia progression.

In conclusion, the inclusion of RLRL therapy in the WSPOS 2025 Myopia Consensus Statement represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of myopia treatment. As stakeholders in the ophthalmology community continue to explore and validate this innovative approach, the future of myopia management may very well be illuminated by the promise of light-based therapies.