Prevention of myopia progression

ABSTRACT

Myopia is a common disorder affecting 38.7%-73.1% of the total population in East Asian countries. A high prevalence of myopia is associated with an increased risk of sight-threatening problems, such as retinal detachment, retinal tears, glaucoma, and choroidal neovascularization. Slowing progression of myopia could benefit many children in East Asia. However, only a few methods used for myopia control have proven to be effective. The most effective methods are topical pharmaceutical agents such as atropine, orthokeratology lens (Ortho-K lens), and outdoor activity. To minimize its side effects, a lower dose of atropine instillation is recommended. An Ortho-K lens can be a good option in mild myopia. Increasing outdoor activity and light exposure prevent myopia onset and development, as well as axial growth. Conventional methods such as pin-hole glasses, ocular movement exercise, and bifocal or multifocal glasses have all been proven to be ineffective. This lecture provides an overview of the prevention of myopia progression available in the literature, so that we can learn the methods that might lower the risk of sight-threatening complications in myopic children.