North Charleston, South Carolina – A new study has revealed that as many as 30% of children and teens worldwide were nearsighted in 2023, with diagnoses expected to worsen in the next two decades. Published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology, the study predicts that by 2050, nearly 740 million young individuals globally will have myopia.
Lead author Dr. Yajun Chen, a professor at Sun Yat-sen University in China, highlighted significant disparities in myopia rates across different regions, emphasizing the importance of understanding these variations for tailored prevention and intervention strategies. The study analyzed data from 276 studies involving over 5.4 million participants from 50 countries, identifying factors such as gender, ethnicity, culture, urban areas, and age that contribute to higher rates of nearsightedness.
Experts have warned of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on myopia rates, attributing the increase to prolonged indoor living, reduced outdoor activity, and increased screen time. Dr. Jesse Willingham, an optometrist, cautioned that untreated myopia can lead to severe vision problems later in life, affecting academic performance, social interactions, and long-term eye health.
To address the rising prevalence of myopia among youth, experts recommend promoting outdoor activities, managing screen time, scheduling regular eye exams, and participating in community initiatives aimed at preventing myopia. Creating a supportive environment at home and in schools that encourages healthy vision habits is crucial in combating the myopia crisis.
By taking proactive steps to reduce the prevalence of myopia and promote healthier vision for children and adolescents, individuals can contribute to safeguarding the visual health of future generations. It is essential for parents, educators, and healthcare providers to work together in implementing strategies to address the growing concern of nearsightedness globally.