When someone has trouble seeing things in the distance, the individual is often diagnosed with nearsightedness, also known as myopia. Myopia is becoming increasingly common in children and is one of the leading causes of vision impairment worldwide.
Many parents first notice the signs when their child begins squinting to see the board at school, holding devices very close to their face, or needing stronger glasses year after year. While glasses and contact lenses improve vision, they do not slow the progression of myopia. That’s why regular eye examinations are so important.
Why Is Myopia Becoming More Common?
Over the past several decades, the number of children developing myopia has increased dramatically. Researchers estimate that by the year 2050, nearly half of the world’s population may be nearsighted.
Scientists believe this increase is related to a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors, including:
- Increased time spent on near (up-close) work, such as reading, computers, tablets, and smartphones
- Reduced time spent outdoors
- Having one or two parents who are nearsighted
Studies have shown that children who spend more time outdoors are less likely to develop myopia. Experts believe that exposure to natural daylight and spending less time focused on near tasks may help support healthy visual development.
How Does Myopia Progress?
Myopia often develops gradually. Initially, a child may notice occasional blur when looking up from a book or device. Over time, distance vision becomes consistently blurry.
Children may experience:
- Difficulty seeing the board at school
- Trouble recognizing faces from a distance
- Squinting frequently
- Headaches or eye strain
- A need for stronger glasses prescriptions each year
For some children, the prescription changes slowly. For others, it can worsen rapidly, requiring prescription changes every 6 to 12 months.
Why Traditional Glasses Aren’t Enough
Traditional glasses and contact lenses provide clear vision, but they do not slow the progression of myopia.
As myopia increases, the eye becomes longer from front to back. Higher levels of myopia are associated with an increased risk of eye diseases later in life, including:
- Retinal detachment
- Glaucoma
- Myopic macular degeneration
- Cataracts
The risk of these conditions increases as myopia becomes more severe, making early diagnosis and management extremely important.
The Good News: Myopia Can Be Managed
The good news is that modern myopia management options can help slow the progression of nearsightedness in many children.
Depending on your child’s age, prescription, lifestyle, and eye health, treatment options may include specialized spectacle lenses, contact lenses, or other evidence-based approaches designed to reduce the rate of progression.
Don’t Wait Until the Prescription Gets Worse
If your child’s glasses prescription seems to be increasing every year, don’t assume it’s simply something they will outgrow.
Early intervention can make a significant difference. Today’s myopia management options can help slow progression and support long-term eye health.
If you have questions about your child’s vision or would like to schedule a comprehensive eye examination, visit andersonvisioncare.ca or contact one of our offices.
Dr. Matthew Anderson, Developmental Optometrist, provides vision care for the entire family at Anderson Family Vision Care as well as specialized services in the diagnosis and treatment of vision problems that interfere with reading and learning. Dr. Anderson is a popular speaker with parents and professional groups. Reach him at 204-633-7482. For more information, visit andersonvisioncare.ca.
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