Myopia – a modern epidemic
Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a vision disorder that causes blurred distance vision. The number of children and adults with this condition is increasing every year, and it is estimated that by 2050, up to 50% of the population will be nearsighted. Slovakia is no exception, with an increasing number of children with myopia.
The main causes of the increase in myopia in children:
- Close-up activities – excessive screen time and reading at the expense of outdoor activities.
- Lack of sunlight – insufficient daylight promotes rapid eye growth and an increase in diopters.
- Heredity – if one parent is nearsighted, the risk for the child is three times higher; if both parents are nearsighted, the risk is six times higher.
The long-term consequences of myopia include a higher risk of serious eye diseases such as retinal detachment, cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. In addition to health risks, myopia also reduces quality of life and causes financial burdens associated with glasses or surgery.
Prevention and slowing of myopia:
- Children should spend at least 2 hours a day in daylight.
- Limit the use of cell phones, tablets, and computers according to age:
- under 2 years old – no use,
- 2–5 years old – max. 1 hour per day,
- 5–12 years old – max. 2 hours per day.
- Regular eye examinations for early detection of problems.
If a child already has myopia, it is best to slow its progression between the ages of 6 and 10, when the eyes grow the fastest. Classic glasses or regular contact lenses will not stop the progression of myopia, so special procedures are used, such as atropine eye drops, special glasses or contact lenses with defocus, or orthokeratology lenses for nighttime wear.
