What is Myopia?
Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is when the light entering the eye focuses in front of the retina. It is a common condition that causes blur when looking at distance objects; near objects can remain in focus. It can be caused by the progressive elongation of the eye which is concerning as that is associated with increased risk of retinal tears, myopic macular degeneration, and glaucoma. The younger the age at which myopia begins, the more of a concern it is.
Who is myopic?
The Canadian Association of Optometrists estimates 30% of Canadians are myopic. This number is expected to increase to 50% worldwide by 2050. For the current generation, myopia is now emerging at a younger age and progressing faster.
Learn more about How Myopia Affects Children
Why control Myopia?
Correction vs. control are different concepts. Myopia can be corrected with glasses, contacts or even a refractive surgery – so why bother controlling it at all?
Correction alone does not address the underlying concern of progression or protect eye health.
A -7.00 retina is still at very high risk for complication even if they can currently see well. Prevention is KEY!
What options do I have?
Gone are the days where a simple glasses or contact lenses prescription – with the acceptance of worsening vision at the next visit – were standard of care. Extensive research has shown that there are ways we can control myopic progression.
There are ways to slow it down and decrease the risk of vision threatening complications later in life.
At Modern Eye, our doctors following our myopia control program are committed to using research-backed methods, tailored specifically to each child, to achieve the best outcome.
We are interested in controlling it, not just correcting it, keeping levels of myopia (and axial length – the elongation of the eye) as low as possible.