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Bio-environmental factors associated with myopia: An updated review
V Galvis1, A Tello1, P A Camacho2
1Centro Oftalmológico Virgilio Galvis, Floridablanca, Colombia; Fundación Oftalmológica de Santander FOSCAL, Floridablanca, Colombia; Facultad de Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Bucaramanga, Bucaramanga, Colombia.
Archivos De La Sociedad Espanola De Oftalmologia
|February 7, 2017
Summary
Juvenile myopia development involves complex genetic and environmental factors. Environmental influences like near work and reduced outdoor time may significantly increase myopia prevalence globally.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Genetics
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Juvenile myopia is a growing global health concern.
- Rapid increases in myopia rates, particularly in Southeast Asia, suggest significant environmental influences.
- Myopia results from a complex interplay between genetic predisposition and environmental triggers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the combined genetic and environmental factors contributing to juvenile myopia.
- To identify specific environmental risk factors associated with increased myopia prevalence.
Main Methods:
- Review of experimental animal studies.
- Analysis of observational and intervention studies in humans.
- Examination of evidence linking environmental factors to myopia.
Main Results:
- Evidence supports both genetic and environmental factors in juvenile myopia development.
- Increased near-vision activities, educational demands, and reduced outdoor sunlight exposure are linked to higher myopia rates.
- Dietary changes and low indoor light levels may also contribute to myopia prevalence.
Conclusions:
- Juvenile myopia is multifactorial, influenced by genetics and environment.
- Environmental factors, including lifestyle and educational pressures, play a crucial role in myopia progression.
- Further research into mitigating environmental risk factors is warranted.
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