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[HEALTH] · South Africa · 2 sources

Part of situation: Global rise in childhood myopia and vision risks (20 clusters)

Rising myopia rates increase risk of retinal detachment

myopia retinal detachment eye health vision loss short-sightedness

The global increase in myopia, or short-sightedness, is raising concerns among eye health specialists regarding a potential rise in retinal detachment cases. Experts warn that myopia is a significant controllable risk factor for this sight-threatening emergency, which occurs when the retina separates from the tissue supplying it with oxygen and nutrients.

Dr. Schalk du Toit of the Ophthalmological Society of South Africa (OSSA) notes that while mild myopia triples the risk of retinal detachment, severe cases can increase that risk by as much as 39 times. The rising prevalence is linked to increased screen time and less time spent outdoors, particularly among children and young adults. Estimates suggest that by 2050, approximately 5 billion people, or half the world's population, could be affected by myopia.

Entities

Ophthalmological Society of South Africa · Schalk du Toit

Sources

Short-sightedness is rising - and so is the risk of retinal detachment [www.oudtshoorncourant.com]
Short-sightedness is rising - and so is the risk of retinal detachment [www.mosselbayadvertiser.com]