Have you noticed more people wearing glasses lately? It’s not just your imagination, myopia, or nearsightedness, is on the rise worldwide, including here in Seattle. As optometrists committed to preserving your eye health, we want to share important insights about this growing trend and how you can take steps to protect your vision.

What is Myopia, and Why Is it Increasing?

Myopia is a condition where distant objects appear blurry because the eye’s shape causes light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. Traditionally associated with childhood, myopia is now affecting a greater number of young people at an earlier age. Current projections suggest that by 2050, nearly half of the world's population could be near-sighted, with some regions like Southeast Asia experiencing rates as high as 80-90%.

What’s Causing This Surge?

The main contributing factors include increased screen time and reduced outdoor activities. Kids and adults alike spend hours on computers, tablets, and smartphones, often paired with less time spent outdoors. This modern lifestyle can influence eye development, leading to changes in the shape of the eyeball and increased myopia progression.

Why Is Myopia More Than Just Needing Glasses?

While needing glasses may seem like a minor inconvenience, high levels of myopia can pose serious risks later in life. These include retinal detachment, glaucoma, and an increased chance of vision loss. Early intervention and management can help slow down the progression and reduce the risk of these complications.

How Can We Protect Our Eyes?

There are effective strategies to manage and potentially reduce the progression of myopia:
            •           Increase Outdoor Activities: Encourage children to spend more time outside. Natural light and looking at distant objects help maintain healthy eye growth.
            •           Limit Screen Time: Follow the “20-20-20 Rule”: After every 20 minutes of near work, look at an object 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds to relax the focusing muscle.
            •           Schedule Regular Eye Exams: Early detection of myopia progression allows for timely management. Our optometry team can assess your or your child's eye health and tailor a plan suited for your needs.
            •           Myopia Control Options: Modern options like specialized glasses, contact lenses, and eye drops are available that can slow the progression of nearsightedness. Ask us about these solutions during your visit.

Your Eyes Deserve Care

At Optometry Medical Group in Seattle, we are dedicated to safeguarding your vision. If you notice your child's prescription is increasing or if you have concerns about your own eyesight, schedule an appointment with us. Early intervention is key to maintaining clear, healthy vision for life.

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