Preventing the progression of myopia in children

In recent years, the rapid increase in myopia among children around the world has become a social issue.

As myopia becomes severe, the risk of developing diseases that may lead to blindness in the future increases, so it is important to slow the progression of myopia.

As a parent, I am very worried about my child's myopia getting worse every year.

The factors that contribute to the progression of myopia can be broadly divided into genetic and environmental factors.

Again, the genetics of the parents play a big role.

Environmental factors include the spread of digital devices and fewer opportunities to play outside.

In addition, correction with regular glasses or contact lenses is itself one of the causes of the progression of myopia.

At our hospital, we provide treatments to slow the progression of myopia using low-concentration atropine eye drops, multifocal soft contact lenses, and orthokeratology, which are recognized as effective worldwide.

In Japan, this procedure is not yet covered by insurance, so it is an elective treatment.

It is difficult to completely control the progression of myopia, and long-term, persistent treatment is required.