Understanding the Myopia Epidemic: What Parents need to know and how to take action.
If your child has recently been diagnosed with myopia (short-sightedness), you're not alone—and you may be surprised to learn it's becoming increasingly common among Australian kids. In fact, rates of myopia have nearly doubled in recent decades, and the trend shows no signs of slowing down.
This growing issue has been labelled a myopia epidemic, and it's something every parent should be informed about. The good news? There are effective ways to slow its progression and protect your child's long-term eye health.
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What Is Myopia?
Myopia is a common vision condition where distant objects appear blurry, while close objects remain clear. It’s caused by the eyeball growing too long or the cornea being too curved, preventing light from focusing properly on the retina.
Mild myopia might seem manageable with glasses, but the concern lies in progressive myopia—where vision gets worse year after year. High levels of myopia significantly increase the risk of serious eye conditions later in life, including glaucoma, cataracts, retinal detachment, and macular degeneration.
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Why Is Myopia Becoming So Common?
The rise in myopia is strongly linked to lifestyle and environmental factors, especially in children:
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Increased screen time (phones, tablets, computers)
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Less time spent outdoors
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Close-up tasks like reading or homework with limited breaks
Recent studies suggest that Australian children are spending significantly less time outside compared to previous generations, contributing to the sharp rise in childhood myopia.
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What Parents Can Do: Myopia Control Options
The earlier myopia is detected, the better the chances of slowing its progression. Here are the most effective myopia control strategies available in Australia:
1. Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) Lenses
These specially designed contact lenses are worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea. By morning, your child can see clearly without glasses or contacts, and the lenses help slow myopia progression.
2. Multifocal Soft Contact Lenses
Daytime contact lenses designed to not only correct vision but also reduce eye elongation associated with worsening myopia.
3. Myopia Control Spectacle Lenses
Specially designed glasses like Essilor Stellest™ or Hoya MiYOSMART™ slow down myopia progression while providing clear vision.
4. Low-Dose Atropine Eye Drops
Prescribed by an eye care professional, these medicated drops are used daily and have shown excellent results in slowing myopia progression with minimal side effects.
5. Outdoor Time
Encouraging at least 2 hours of outdoor play daily can significantly reduce the risk of developing or worsening myopia. Natural light and long-distance focusing help protect young eyes.
When Should You Get Your Child’s Eyes Checked?
Children should have their first comprehensive eye exam at age 3–5, then regularly every 1–2 years, or as recommended by your optometrist. If you notice your child squinting, holding screens too close, or complaining of headaches or blurry distance vision, book an appointment right away.
Act Early, Protect Their Vision
Myopia is more than just needing glasses—it’s a lifelong health issue that requires attention and action. With early diagnosis and a personalised myopia management plan, you can help protect your child’s sight now and for the future.
For expert advice, schedule a consultation with our optometrist today.
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Have questions about myopia control options? Contact our clinic—we're here to help guide you and your family toward healthier vision.