Nearsightedness epidemic projected to impact 740 million children by 2050

GUANGZHOU, China — Vision problems are becoming an issue of pandemic-like proportions. Concerningly, a new study finds nearly a billion children worldwide will have to grow with glasses.

Specifically, researchers in China have found that myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is on the rise globally among children and teens. The research, published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology, paints a concerning picture of the future, predicting that by 2050, nearly 740 million youngsters worldwide could be affected by this condition.

The study, led by researchers from Sun Yat-Sen University in China, analyzed data from 276 studies involving over 5.4 million participants across 50 countries. Their findings reveal that the global prevalence of nearsightedness among children and teens has increased significantly over the past three decades, from 24.32% in the 1990s to 35.81% in the early 2020s.

This surge in myopia rates is particularly pronounced in certain regions and demographics. East Asian countries, for instance, show the highest prevalence, with Japan topping the list at a staggering 85.95%. The study also found that girls are more likely to develop myopia than boys, especially during adolescence.

Interestingly, the research highlights a notable disparity between developed and developing countries. Contrary to what one might expect, developing or underdeveloped nations show a higher prevalence of myopia (31.89%) compared to developed countries (23.81%).

“The early implementation of formal education in certain East Asian nations could potentially serve as a contributing element,” the researchers suggest in a media release.

The study’s projections for the future are even more alarming. By 2050, it’s estimated that 39.80% of children and adolescents worldwide will be myopic. This translates to an astounding four in every 10 youths needing prescription glasses, potentially creating a significant public health challenge.

What’s driving this myopia epidemic?

The researchers point to several factors, including increased screen time, reduced outdoor activities, and early introduction to formal education in some cultures. For example, in countries like Singapore and Hong Kong, children as young as two or three years-old often engage in supplementary educational programs before starting formal schooling.

The gender disparity in myopia rates is particularly intriguing. The study suggests that girls may be more prone to myopia due to earlier physical development, less time spent outdoors, and potentially more time devoted to close-range activities like reading.

The study also emphasizes the importance of developing good eye habits early in life. This includes encouraging more outdoor activities, limiting screen time, and ensuring regular eye check-ups. At a broader level, the researchers suggest that governments should implement policies to reduce excessive homework and off-campus tutoring burdens on young students.

“Given the large sample size included, our estimates of the prevalence of myopia are considered to be close to the precise number,” the team writes. “It is crucial to recognize that myopia may become a global health burden in the future.”