The Newest Kid on the Myopia Control Block

Myopia control- a buzzword that's been buzzing ever louder as the global myopia pandemic grows. The current prediction is that by the year 2050, half the world's population will be myopic.

What's the Problem With Myopia?

Myopia, also known as near- or short-sightedness, has impacts that extend much further than blurry vision. We know that even low degrees of short-sightedness are associated with an increased lifelong risk of various eye diseases, including cataracts, glaucoma, and retinal detachment. The higher the myopia, the higher the risk.

Young children are at the greatest risk of developing high myopia as this is typically where we find the most aggressive myopia progression. However, this is also where we find the great opportunity to make a difference.

Myopia Control

Over the last several years, optometrists have been able to offer varying strategies of myopia control. Myopia control aims to slow or delay the progression of short-sightedness in children, thereby keeping their risk of sight-threatening eye disease as low as possible. Strategies include contact lenses, pharmaceutical eyedrops, and multifocal spectacle lenses.

Lens manufacturer Hoya has now added a new weapon to the myopia control arsenal - Miyosmart spectacle lenses. Miyosmart lenses have demonstrated the ability to slow the progression of myopia by up to 60%. They are an effective, safe, and non-invasive option, with the added advantage that both parents and children tend to be more familiar with glasses over contacts or eyedrops.

If you're concerned about your child's vision, book an appointment with Toowoomba Optometrist Outlook Eye Centre today for a comprehensive assessment.