Myopia: public health challenges and interventions

Lança, Carla; Iribarren, Rafa; Grzybowski, Andrzej

http://hdl.handle.net/10400.21/16085

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Authors

Lança, Carla

Iribarren, Rafa

Grzybowski, Andrzej

Abstract(s)

Myopia results from an excessive axial length of the eye that develops in childhood. Myopia progression at a rate of -0.50 D per year increases the risk of developing high myopia with associated blinding conditions. Myopia is an important public health problem that affected 30% of the world's population in 2020. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the prevalence was expected to rise to 50% by 2050. The introduction of virtual learning tools during the home confinement imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic led to increases in screen time and significant decreases in outdoor time. Recent data from several studies around the world suggest an increased myopia incidence and myopia progression among children after home confinement. Efforts to reduce the prevalence, progression, and severity of myopia could have a profound impact on public health. The aim of the current Research Topic is to cover promising, recent, and novel research trends in myopia, especially preventive strategies to avoid younger age of myopia onset or an accelerated progression to high myopia. Additionally, new studies are important to identify biomarkers that would help to elucidate the pathophysiology of myopia and pathologic myopia that may be used as therapeutic targets in the treatment and prevention of myopia. We aim for a state-of-the-art collection of articles that will provide professionals and managers with knowledge of the risk factors, management, and prevention of myopia.