MYOPIA
PREVENTION
Understand short-sightedness and the options for individual assessment and care.
Myopia Prevention
Myopia makes distant objects appear blurred. It often begins in childhood and may increase as children grow. Early assessment helps families understand what is changing and which management choices may be suitable.
A widely cited 2016 research model estimated that myopia could affect about half of the world’s population by 2050 if trends continued. This is a population projection, not a prediction for an individual child.
The same model projected increasing high myopia. Its estimates highlight the value of ongoing research and eye care; they should not be interpreted as a claim that every person with myopia will lose vision.
Global Myopic
Population in 2000
Estimated global Myopic Population in 2050
Gary Rodney, is the founder of Smart Vision Optometry and
is a Fellow of the International Academy of
Orthokeratology and Myopia Control
What explains the sudden rise
in myopia cases?
Myopia develops through a combination of inherited and environmental influences. Assessment considers:
- Family history
- Age of onset
- Near-work patterns
- Outdoor time
Higher myopia is associated with greater risk of some eye conditions, but serious sight loss is not inevitable. Regular eye-health examinations remain important even when glasses or contact lenses provide clear vision.
Outdoor time and sensible reading habits can support children’s eye care. Once myopia develops, ask about evidence-based options and how progression will be monitored.
Can myopia progression be slowed?
Several treatments can slow progression on average, but responses vary. An examination is needed to discuss suitability and limitations.
No treatment should be presented as a guaranteed permanent cure or a promise to stop progression.
This website explains myopia, assessment and management choices. Use it to prepare questions for an appointment at Smart Vision Optometry in Bondi Beach or Mosman.
Myopia Prevention and Control FAQs
Clear answers about myopia assessment and management from Smart Vision Optometry in Sydney.
What is myopia?
Myopia, or short-sightedness, causes distant objects to appear blurred. It commonly develops when the eye grows longer than expected or when the eye’s focusing structures direct light in front of the retina.
Can myopia progression be slowed?
Myopia progression can often be slowed, although results vary between individuals. An optometrist can assess eye health, prescription changes, binocular vision, family history and lifestyle before recommending an individual management plan.
Which myopia-control options may be considered?
Depending on age, prescription, eye health and lifestyle, options may include:
- Specially designed spectacles
- Specially designed contact lenses
- Orthokeratology
- Prescription eye drops
- Practical advice about outdoor time and near work
No single option is suitable for everyone. Read about myopia-control methods.
Why is early detection important?
Regular assessment helps identify myopia and monitor whether it is changing. Earlier detection gives families more time to discuss appropriate management options and establish a reliable baseline. Learn about early detection.
How can I arrange a myopia assessment in Sydney?
Smart Vision Optometry provides assessments through Eyes InDesign Mosman and Eyes InDesign Bondi. The optometrist will explain suitable options, expected monitoring and any limitations before treatment begins. Book an appointment.
Verify Gary Rodney’s FIAOMC fellowship listing with the Orthokeratology Society of Oceania.
Further reading: International Myopia Institute clinical evidence.