A global review examined data on the prevalence of myopia (nearsightedness) in people aged 5-19 from 50 countries up to 2023.
The review found that the prevalence of myopia increased from 24% globally in 1990 to 36% in 2023.
If rates continue to increase at the same pace, over 40% of young people worldwide could be nearsighted by 2050, exceeding 740 million cases. Prevalence in Asia may reach 70%.
Genetics are not the only factor – time spent outdoors is thought to reduce myopia risk, and the COVID pandemic limited outdoor time and increased screen time for education.
Studies link higher myopia rates to earlier and more intensive education programs, like in Singapore and Hong Kong where some kids start formal education at age 2-3.
Rates are much lower in Africa than Asia, suggesting environmental factors influence prevalence between regions.
More data is needed to understand changing rates over time and differences between ethnicities/geographies. Preventing worsening vision in young people is important.
Source: ScienceAlert
