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Childhood Myopia Surges: 43% Now High Myopes
22 Nov
Summary
- Nearly half of new pediatric myopia cases are high myopes.
- Lifestyle factors like screen time are linked to rising myopia.
- Clinical interventions and lifestyle changes can slow myopia progression.
The Advanced Eye Centre at PGIMER is reporting a significant increase in childhood myopia cases, with 43% of these children now high myopes. This alarming rise is attributed to modern lifestyle patterns, including excessive screen exposure and insufficient outdoor activity, a trend observed nationally and globally. Early detection and intervention are being emphasized to mitigate risks associated with high myopia.
Specialists are highlighting the growing public health concern, noting that projections indicate a substantial rise in myopia among urban Indian children by 2030 and 2050. The paediatric ophthalmology division is actively engaged in patient care and research, advocating for regular eye check-ups, especially for those with a family history of refractive errors.
Preventive measures and treatment options are available, including lifestyle modifications like limiting screen time and increasing outdoor engagement. Clinical interventions such as low-dose atropine and specialized smart glasses are also recommended to slow the progression of myopia in children.
