Epidemiology of Myopia.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Public Health
• Genetics

Background:

• Myopia is a significant global health concern, particularly in East Asia, where it's a leading cause of blindness.
• High myopia (≥-6 diopters) affects approximately 20% of myopic individuals, leading to irreversible vision loss from complications like retinal detachment and glaucoma.
• The rising prevalence of school myopia is linked to gene-environment interactions, with earlier onset predicting faster progression and increased risk of high myopia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of myopia as a disease.
• To discuss the prevalence, risk factors, and complications of myopia.
• To explore recent advancements in myopia prevention, control, and treatment.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of myopia prevalence, risk factors, and interventions.
• Analysis of gene-environment interactions in myopia development.
• Evaluation of current and novel treatment strategies for myopia and its complications.

Main Results:

• Myopia is a prevalent, eyesight-threatening disease, especially in East Asian young adults, contributing to blindness.
• High myopia is associated with severe, irreversible vision loss due to complications.
• Interventions like increased outdoor activity, reduced near work, low-concentration atropine, and orthokeratology show promise in controlling myopia progression.

Conclusions:

• Myopia prevention, control, and treatment strategies are advancing, offering hope for reducing its impact.
• Continued research and collaborative efforts are essential to mitigate the growing global burden of myopia.
• Public health initiatives and governmental support are crucial for effective myopia management.