Did your kid get glasses post-pandemic? Study says myopia rates are soaring around the world
New research has revealed a concerning trend in the prevalence of myopia among children and teens worldwide. According to a paper published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology, the rate of myopia has tripled over the past three decades, with a particularly steep increase noted since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The paper, which reviewed 276 studies published up to June 2023, concluded that more than one in three children and teens are now nearsighted, compared to just one in ten in 1990.
The study also forecasts that if current trends continue, about 740 million children and teens globally—more than half of all young people—will be myopic by 2050. In Canada, the current rate of myopia among children is estimated to be around 25 percent, which is higher than the international average. This represents a significant increase from the prevalence of 17.5 percent reported by researchers at the University of Waterloo in a paper published in early 2018.
Lisa Christian, associate director of clinical practice at the University of Waterloo School of Optometry, highlighted the potential link between the pandemic and accelerated vision deterioration among young adults. The research suggests that the increase in myopia may be due to children spending more time indoors engaging in “near work,” such as reading, using computers, or looking at phone screens. This continuous strain on the eye muscles can lead to the development of myopia.
Several studies have shown a correlation between myopia and inadequate time spent outdoors during childhood. Research indicates that spending one to two hours per day outside can help protect against the onset of myopia by giving the eye muscles a break from near work. Dr. Asim Ali, ophthalmologist-in-chief at SickKids Hospital in Toronto, emphasized the importance of outdoor light in protecting against myopia, as natural light is brighter and better than indoor lighting.
While glasses can correct myopia, Dr. Stephanie Dotchin, a pediatric and adult ophthalmologist in Toronto, warns against dismissing myopia as a trivial issue. Severe myopia, with a prescription of -6.00 or higher, can increase the risk of developing cataracts, glaucoma, and retinal tears, leading to permanent vision loss. Dotchin advises parents to encourage their children to take frequent breaks from near work activities and to have their vision checked regularly.
In conclusion, the rise in myopia among children and teens is a growing concern that requires attention and proactive measures to prevent long-term eye health issues. By promoting outdoor time, reducing screen use, and prioritizing regular eye exams, we can work towards addressing this global health challenge.
