The Myopia Surge – Can We Control It?

The Rising Challenge of Short-Sightedness

Short-sightedness, or myopia, has become one of the fastest-growing eye health issues worldwide. Once considered a minor inconvenience corrected with glasses, myopia is now recognised as a major public health challenge. By 2050, it is predicted that nearly half the world’s population will be affected, including millions of Australians.

This surge isn’t just about needing stronger spectacles. High or uncontrolled myopia significantly increases the risk of serious eye conditions, including glaucoma, cataracts, and retinal detachment.

In this article, Associate Professor Simon Skalicky, leading Melbourne glaucoma specialist and cataract surgeon, examines why myopia is on the rise, what new technologies are helping to manage it, and how Australians can take steps today to protect their vision.

Why Myopia Is Increasing So Rapidly

Myopia occurs when the eyeball grows too long, causing light to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it. Genetics plays a role, but lifestyle changes in recent decades have accelerated its prevalence.

Key drivers include:

• Screen time: Increased use of smartphones, tablets, and computers means more near work and less distance focusing.

• Reduced outdoor activity: Natural daylight helps regulate healthy eye growth, yet children today spend less time outdoors.

• Educational pressures: Long hours of reading, study, and close-up tasks increase the risk of myopia progression.

Studies show that Australian children are not immune to this trend, with urban environments particularly contributing to rising numbers.

Why High Myopia Is a Serious Concern

Mild myopia can usually be corrected with glasses or contact lenses. However, as myopia worsens, the risk of sight-threatening complications increases:

• Glaucoma: Myopic eyes are more vulnerable to optic nerve damage. Learn more about glaucoma care.

• Retinal detachment: Excessive elongation stretches the retina, making it more prone to tearing.

• Macular degeneration: High myopia can cause degenerative changes in the central retina.

• Early cataracts: Myopia is associated with earlier and more complex cataract formation, often requiring advanced cataract surgery.

This is why taking steps early and staying on top of regular eye checks can make a real difference to protecting your long-term vision.

Managing Myopia in Children and Adults

While myopia cannot be reversed, progression can often be slowed, especially if detected early.

1. Lifestyle interventions

• Encourage 2+ hours of outdoor play daily for children.

• Limit continuous near work—apply the “20-20-20 rule” (every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds).

• Balance screen use with physical activity.

2. Pharmacological options

• Low-dose atropine drops have been shown to slow myopia progression in children.

3. Optical solutions

• Myopia-control contact lenses (orthokeratology or multifocal designs).

• Specialised spectacle lenses designed to reduce eye strain and slow progression.

4. Regular monitoring

Children with myopic parents should undergo early and frequent eye checks to track changes.

The Role of AI and Predictive Technology

A new AI tool known as Fundus2Globe is transforming how we assess myopia risk. By analysing 2D retinal images and reconstructing a 3D model of the eye, it can predict which children are most likely to develop high myopia.

This personalised approach means interventions can be started earlier, reducing the risk of long-term complications. Technologies like these also support rural and regional Australia by providing access to advanced assessments outside major cities.

The Australian Perspective

With myopia rates increasing in Australian cities, especially among school-aged children, awareness is critical. Parents should not assume blurred distance vision is harmless, as it may indicate a risk of future eye disease.

For adults, particularly those in their 40s and 50s, worsening myopia may also mask the onset of conditions such as glaucoma or cataracts. A comprehensive examination with an ophthalmologist ensures these risks are not overlooked.

FAQs: Myopia and Its Management

1. Can myopia be cured?
No. Myopia cannot be reversed, but progression can be slowed with lifestyle changes, drops, or optical devices.

2. At what age does myopia usually start?
It often develops in school-aged children and progresses into the late teens or early twenties.

3. Does too much screen time cause myopia?
Excessive near work and limited outdoor activity are key factors. While screens don’t directly cause myopia, they contribute to progression.

4. Should adults with myopia be monitored more closely?
Yes. Adults with moderate or high myopia have higher risks of glaucoma, retinal detachment, and cataracts. Regular eye exams are essential.

5. Is laser surgery an option for myopia?
Procedures like LASIK or SMILE can correct refractive error but do not reduce the long-term risks of high myopia. Ongoing monitoring is still necessary.

Protecting Your Vision for the Future

Myopia is no longer just an inconvenience, it is a growing eye health crisis with potential lifelong consequences. The good news is that with early detection, lifestyle adjustments, and modern treatment options, progression can often be slowed, protecting both vision and quality of life.

If you or your child are experiencing blurred distance vision, don’t dismiss it as “just needing glasses.” Schedule a comprehensive eye exam with Associate Professor Simon Skalicky, Melbourne ophthalmologist and specialist in glaucoma and cataract care.

Protecting vision today could prevent serious complications tomorrow.

Learn more at www.drsimonskalicky.com.au.