Global epidemic of shortsightedness or myopia is projected to affect over 740 million children and adolescents by 2050, with nearly 40% of young people worldwide potentially struggling to see distant objects.
A recent global review, examining data from 276 studies across 50 countries, reveals that myopia prevalence has risen from 24% to 36% between 1990 and 2023. The highest rates are found in Japan with 86% and the lowest in Paraguay 0.84%.
Factors such as limited outdoor play, increased screen time, and early formal education contribute to the rise, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic.
What steps can we take to protect the vision of future generations?