Myopia control solutions are becoming increasingly important. Myopia (nearsightedness) in children is increasing at an alarming rate. Myopia is becoming more and more prevalent around the world. By 2050, research suggests that 50% of the world’s population may be myopic. Myopia is considered elevated as of -6D, at which point the risk of pathologies such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, cataracts and maculopathy increases.
It’s important to delay myopia onset until after 10 years old because progression of myopia is much faster before the age of 10. We recommend no screen time for children under the age of 2. Between the ages of 2 and 8, children should be on screens for no more than 1 hour per day. For children over the age of 8, a maximum of 2 hours of screen time per day for leisure (excluding school work) is recommended. Studies show 1-2 hours per day of outdoor time before myopia onset can provide a protective effect against myopia.
There are 4 environmental conditions that increase the risk for myopia we can control:
Distance of computer and near work
Time spent at computer or near
Adequate lighting
Time spent outdoors
The government reimburses $300 for kid’s glasses
All children are reimbursed $300 towards glasses every 2 years until the age of 18. You simply need to fill out the form with your child’s Medicare number and QST number.
Follow the link: https://formulaires.ramq.gouv.qc.ca/lunettes
Nutrition
Nutrition is also an important factor that can influence the length of the eye. Foods with high glycemic content are more likely to lead to myopia.
Myopia Management by ZEISS
Zeiss offers myopia management lenses that work to stabilize myopia in children. Peer-reviewed studies have shown slower progression of myopia in children compared with standard spectacle lenses. UV protection is standard on ZEISS myopia management lenses, including clear lenses. This feature is particularly important for young patients since their pupils are larger and allow more UV light to reach the back of the eye.
Acuvue Contact Lenses
Abiliti ™ by Acuvue is a therapeutic lens designed for myopia management in children and young teens. The material is the same as the Oasys 1-day with which many of you are already familiar. So your children will enjoy the same comfort. Studies show that this lens slows the progression of myopia by -0.50D in as little as 6 months. The parameters of this lens have been designed to fit the smaller corneas of this young population. Another special feature is the UV protection, a feature which is unique to Acuvue lenses. These lenses also have a high oxygen permeability, so you can rest assured that your children are getting the utmost in comfort and protection for their eyes.
Annual Pediatric Eye Exams
Eye exams at an early age are important in order for the detection and early treatment of myopia, as well as other ocular conditions. Book an appointment at ROCKLAND EYE for your child’s eyes today.
As always, your eye health is our top priority. Annual paediatric eye exams can make a significant difference in ensuring your child’s eyes stay healthy. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you have any concerns or questions about myopia control. Thank you for choosing us as your partners in eye care.
