Repeated low-level red-light therapy for myopia control: An update on efficacy and safety

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Pediatric Medicine

Background:

• Myopia (nearsightedness) is a growing global health concern, particularly in children.
• Current myopia control methods have limitations in efficacy and accessibility.
• Repeated low-level red-light (RLRL) therapy presents a novel approach for myopia management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize high-level evidence on the efficacy of RLRL therapy for myopia control.
• To evaluate the safety profile and potential adverse effects associated with RLRL therapy.
• To identify knowledge gaps and future research directions for RLRL therapy.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and network meta-analyses.
• Analysis of data on axial elongation, myopic onset, and progression.
• Assessment of safety data, including structural and functional changes observed via OCT and mfERG.

Main Results:

• RCTs consistently show RLRL therapy significantly reduces axial elongation and slows myopia progression in children.
• Network meta-analyses suggest RLRL therapy is more effective than existing interventions.
• Short-term safety is favorable, with no reported irreversible damage, though transient changes are noted.

Conclusions:

• RLRL therapy is a promising and effective intervention for pediatric myopia control.
• Further investigation is required to understand the clinical significance of transient changes and establish long-term safety.
• Optimizing treatment parameters, device design, and long-term monitoring are crucial for clinical implementation.