Myopia (short-sightedness) causes people to have difficulty seeing distant objects clearly. The incidence of myopia is growing rapidly, with half the world's population estimated to be myopic by 2050. Growing levels of myopia are increasing the risks of serious eye conditions. Myopia is a progressive eye condition that has excessive elongation of the eye and high levels of myopia are increasing the risks of sight threatening conditions.
Myopia can be influenced by Genetics; having parents who are short sighted makes it more likely for the children to develop myopia, Ethnicity, and environmental influences such as increasing time on screens and near work.
It is important for all children to be assessed and reviewed as we now have treatments available to help slow the progression of myopia, such as spectacles, contact lenses, vision therapy and prescription eye drops. These all contribute to reducing the risk of serious eye conditions. At Hope Island Optical, our Optometrists can thoroughly assess the needs of your children and if needed, recommend the best treatment for them.