Myopia in Children: What Parents Need to Know
If your child is squinting at the whiteboard, sitting too close to the TV, or complaining of frequent headaches, myopia—also known as nearsightedness—could be the cause. Once considered a minor concern, myopia is now a growing global public health issue, especially in urban areas like Toronto, where children spend more time indoors and on screens.
What Is Myopia?
Myopia occurs when the eye grows too long from front to back, causing distant objects to appear blurry while close-up vision remains clear. It often begins in school-age children and typically worsens through adolescence.
Why Is Childhood Myopia on the Rise?
Experts link the increase in myopia to several modern lifestyle factors:
Excessive screen time: Smartphones, tablets, and computers require prolonged near focus, which may strain developing eyes.
Limited outdoor time: Studies show that natural light and long-distance focus during outdoor play help reduce myopia risk.
Genetics: Children with one or both myopic parents are more likely to develop the condition.
Toronto’s indoor-oriented, screen-heavy lifestyle—especially during long winters or pandemic lockdowns—has only intensified the trend.
Why Early Detection Matters
If left unchecked, progressive myopia can increase the risk of serious eye conditions later in life, such as:
Retinal detachment
Glaucoma
Cataracts
Macular degeneration
Early diagnosis and proactive management are key to protecting long-term vision.
Prevention and Management Strategies
Parents have more tools than ever to slow the progression of myopia:
1. Ortho-K (Orthokeratology)
These are custom-fitted contact lenses worn overnight to reshape the cornea temporarily. Kids wake up with clear vision and no need for daytime glasses or contacts. Ortho-K has been shown to slow myopia progression effectively.
2. Atropine Eye Drops
Low-dose atropine drops, prescribed by an eye care professional, can help slow eye growth in children without significantly affecting vision.
3. Lifestyle Adjustments
Encourage at least 2 hours of outdoor play per day
Limit recreational screen time, especially close-up device use
Promote the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds
Take Action Now
Myopia isn’t just about glasses—it’s a condition that can affect your child’s lifelong eye health. If you notice signs of nearsightedness or if your child hasn’t had a recent exam, schedule a comprehensive eye test with your optometrist. Early intervention can make all the difference.