The myopia boom

12/19/2015

This article discusses the global increase in myopia (near-sightedness) and explores potential causes and implications of this phenomenon. It highlights that myopia has reached epidemic proportions, particularly in East Asia, with almost 90% of 18-year-olds in some urban areas being myopic. The article suggests that the significant increase in myopia is likely due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors, such as increased indoor activities and reduced time spent outdoors. It outlines various theories on the possible mechanisms behind the link between outdoor exposure and reduced risk of myopia development. The article also touches upon the potential consequences of this myopia epidemic, including higher risks of other eye diseases. Researchers and policymakers are exploring strategies to combat this trend and encourage healthier habits to protect vision.

childhood development ꞏ visual acuity ꞏ biology ꞏ myopia ꞏ adolescents ꞏ ocular health ꞏ myopia control ꞏ epidemiology ꞏ optometry ꞏ eye care ꞏ refractive development ꞏ environmental factors ꞏ visual impairment ꞏ screen time ꞏ outdoor activities ꞏ education ꞏ myopia epidemic ꞏ research ꞏ lasik ꞏ treatment ꞏ genetics ꞏ myopia prevalence ꞏ children ꞏ myopia progression ꞏ myopic shift ꞏ prevalence ꞏ axial length ꞏ myopia management ꞏ eye health ꞏ eyeglasses ꞏ refractive error ꞏ eye surgery ꞏ risk factors ꞏ ophthalmology ꞏ healthcare ꞏ nearsightedness ꞏ corneal curvature ꞏ ocular biometry ꞏ vision ꞏ nature ꞏ prevention ꞏ contact lenses ꞏ science ꞏ school ꞏ eyesight ꞏ lifestyle ꞏ public health ꞏ scientific study