Global myopia trends prompt vision screening and control measures

Global trends show a significant rise in myopia, with projections suggesting the proportion of the nearsighted population in the United States could reach 50% by 2050. To address this, various medical and lifestyle interventions are being utilized to manage eye health and slow the progression of nearsightedness.

In Taipei, the Health Bureau is promoting free professional vision screenings for elementary school students to coincide with World Sight Day. Officials emphasize that standard school eye charts only measure distance vision and may fail to detect early-stage myopia or pseudomyopia. They recommend professional examinations involving pupil dilation to accurately assess refractive error and reduce the risk of high myopia and related complications like retinal detachment.

Clinical methods for myopia control include orthokeratology (nighttime contact lenses), specialized myopia-control glasses and contact lenses, and low-dose atropine eye drops. Additionally, visual function training—such as near-far focusing exercises and relaxation techniques—is used to improve eye coordination and reduce fatigue, though experts note these methods are intended to support, rather than replace, standard vision correction.