What is Myopia?
Myopia, sometimes called nearsightedness, is the inability to see distances clearly. It is predicated that almost 50% of the world population will be nearsighted by 2050. This is typically attributed to increased indoor time accompanied by increased near/computer/tablet/cell phone time. That is why, I always recommend outdoor time (at least 2hr/day) and watching working distances on devices.
Increasing myopia is associated with increased risk for retinal detachment, maculopathy, cataracts, and glaucoma. However, there anything we can do to slow down the change? Can we slow down the progression of nearsightedness? How do we correct myopia?
And the answer (finally) is Yes!
The amount of research going into progressive myopia in children has exploded in recent years. This has led to various tools to slow down the progression of nearsightedness. One of the newest ‘tools’ is Hoya’s MiyoSmart lenses. In a two year clinical trial, the results were published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology, demonstrated that MiyoSmart lenses reduced myopia progression in kids by 60%.
The picture above is of an actual MiyoSmart lens as you can see there is central button called a DIMs zone. These are zones of full corrective zone with areas of defocus. The areas of defocus will allow for the correction of peripheral defocus (as demonstrated in the photo below).
But what does all this mean for your kids, how do parents get in front of this problem:
We have an easy and effective way to reduce the progression of nearsightedness.
Lenses are many of impact resistant polycarbonate lenses.
UV protection
In addition to the Miyosmart lenses, we may prescribe certain eye drops and contact lenses. If you have the time, I recommend taking this survey (https://www.mykidsvision.org/en-us) to evaluate your child’s risk for developing myopia. We, also, recommend annual eye exams to monitor your children’s eyes!
*Additional information can be found at Hoya Canada’s website:
* Images were taken from Hoya Canada with permission.
