Myopia Awareness in Australia: Insights from a Nationwide Survey

Myopia is an ocular condition that commonly develops in childhood and causes blurred distance vision. It poses a lifetime risk of serious ocular complications that can result in irreversible visual impairment. Early detection and implementation of treatment to slow myopia progression are key to managing the increase in prevalence. This study aims to assess the awareness and understanding related to myopia within the Australian community.

A cross-sectional nationwide survey was conducted between September and October 2024. The survey was designed using questions drawn from previous myopia awareness studies and tailored for the Australian context. It was administered online and participants were Australian residents, ≥18 years of age. Descriptive statistics and chi-square test of independence were used to evaluate associations between variables of interest.

A total of 1565 responses were analysed, with responses from 68 participants excluded due to their involvement in the eyecare industry. Seventy-nine percent of participants had heard of the term myopia; however, there were aspects relating to risk factors, complications and treatment options that were poorly understood. Only 15% of participants were aware of the existence of treatments to slow myopia progression.

While many participants were aware of myopia, significant gaps existed in understanding its symptoms, risk factors and management. Public health initiatives are needed to improve community knowledge and promote early detection, prevention and treatment to reduce the long-term risk of visual impairment for myopic children.