05/05/2025
Why Myopia Control Is Necessary in Children ?
Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a refractive error where distant objects appear blurry while near objects can be seen clearly. In recent years, there has been a global rise in the prevalence of childhood myopia, especially in urbanized areas. Controlling myopia during childhood is crucial for several reasons, spanning from visual performance to long-term ocular health.
1. Slowing the Progression of Myopia
Children with myopia tend to experience progression in their refractive error as they grow, especially during school years. Without intervention, myopia may worsen significantly. Myopia control strategies aim to slow down this progression, preventing children from developing high myopia, which carries higher risks of eye disease.
2. Reducing the Risk of Serious Ocular Complications
High myopia (usually considered -6.00 diopters or more) is associated with an increased risk of several sight-threatening conditions, including:
Retinal detachment – due to elongation of the eyeball
Myopic maculopathy – degenerative changes in the central retina
Glaucoma – increased risk due to structural changes in the eye
Cataracts – especially posterior subcapsular type
By controlling myopia early, we reduce the axial elongation of the eye and, subsequently, the risk of these serious complications.
3. Improved Quality of Life
Children with rapidly progressing myopia may require frequent prescription changes, affecting their daily activities, academic performance, and self-esteem. Slowing myopia progression helps maintain better vision stability, making it easier for children to participate in school and outdoor activities with confidence.
4. Reducing Lifetime Dependency on High-Powered Glasses
Higher degrees of myopia require thicker and heavier lenses, which may be cosmetically undesirable and uncomfortable. Myopia control can help reduce the final refractive error in adulthood, leading to lighter, more manageable glasses or better outcomes with contact lenses and refractive surgeries.
5. Societal and Economic Burden
With the increasing prevalence of myopia worldwide, especially in Asia, the associated heal