Childhood myopia rates rise globally, affecting one in three young people

The prevalence of myopia among children and adolescents is rising globally. Research from Sun Yat-sen University indicates that the global prevalence increased from 24% between 1990 and 2000 to 36% between 2020 and 2023, affecting approximately one in three young people. Experts suggest the number of cases could reach 740 million worldwide by 2050.

Several factors contribute to this trend, including urbanization, gender (with girls being more affected), and potentially the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on vision deterioration. While genetics play a role, lifestyle habits such as excessive near-work activities—including reading and prolonged use of smartphones—are significant contributors. Myopia often occurs when the eye grows too long, causing light to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it.

In France, an Ipsos study for Essilor found that 35% of parents do not know the correct definition of myopia, and 63% have never heard of solutions to slow its progression. Medical professionals, including Dr. Jimmy Mohamed, emphasize the importance of early detection through signs such as squinting or holding objects very close to the face, and recommend increasing time spent outdoors to help mitigate risks.