Seeing the Future Clearly: How to Control Myopia Progression

In recent years, myopia—commonly known as nearsightedness—has seen a dramatic rise, especially among children and young adults. By 2050, it’s estimated that half of the global population could be myopic. But here’s the good news: while we can’t reverse myopia, we can slow down its progression.

In this post, we’ll explore what causes myopia to worsen, practical strategies to control it, and the latest treatments available to help you or your child maintain clearer vision for longer.

What Causes Myopia to Progress?

Myopia typically develops in childhood when the eyeball grows too long or the cornea becomes too curved, causing light rays to focus in front of the retina. As children grow, so do their eyes, which can lead to worsening vision if left unchecked.

Factors contributing to myopia progression include:

• Genetics – A child with one or both myopic parents is at higher risk.

• Near work – Prolonged screen time, reading, or studying up close can strain the eyes.

• Lack of outdoor time – Studies show that spending more time outdoors can significantly reduce the risk of developing or worsening myopia.

Ways to Control Myopia Progression

Here are evidence-based strategies to help slow down myopia:

1. Increase Outdoor Time

Spending at least 90–120 minutes outdoors daily has been shown to reduce the onset and progression of myopia in children. Natural light and long-distance focusing help the eyes develop more healthily.

2. Practice Good Visual Habits

• Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away.

• Ensure proper lighting when reading or using screens.

• Maintain an appropriate reading distance—about 30–40 cm for books and 50–60 cm for screens.

3. Use Myopia Control Lenses

• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Special contact lenses worn overnight that reshape the cornea and temporarily correct vision during the day.

• Multifocal Soft Contact Lenses: Designed to reduce eye strain and slow myopia.

• Specialized Spectacle Lenses: Options like MiYOSMART and Stellest lenses have shown promising results in clinical studies.

4. Consider Low-Dose Atropine Eye Drops

Atropine (usually 0.01% concentration) is a medicated eye drop that’s been clinically proven to slow down myopia progression in children. It’s typically prescribed by an eye care professional and used nightly.

5. Regular Eye Exams

Monitoring eye health and prescription changes every 6–12 months ensures early detection and timely intervention. Eye doctors can tailor treatments based on progression trends and lifestyle factors.

Myopia Management Is a Journey

While controlling myopia progression isn't about instant results, consistent effort can make a big difference over time. It's not just about better vision—it's about preventing future complications like retinal detachment, glaucoma, and myopic macular degeneration, which are more common in high myopia.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a parent concerned about your child’s vision or an adult managing your own eye health, know that myopia progression can be managed with the right habits, treatments, and professional care. Take proactive steps today to see a clearer tomorrow.

Stay informed. Stay outdoors. And stay focused—on the horizon.