# Youth myopia trends in East and Southeast Asia

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/youth-myopia-trends-in-east-and-southeast-asia
> Updated: 2026-08-10T23:40:10.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2.

Rising myopia rates among youth in East and Southeast Asia have become a significant public health concern, driven by urbanization, academic pressure, and reduced outdoor activity. Projections suggest that by 2050, half of the global population may be myopic.

In China, a coordinated strategy launched in 2018 has led to a decline in student myopia, with the national rate falling to 50.3% in 2024. This multi-agency program includes lighting standards, outdoor activity mandates, and the use of low-dose atropine eye drops. 

However, digital transformation and increased screen time for education and entertainment present ongoing challenges. Experts have noted an “acquired attention deficit” pattern linked to excessive short-video and gaming exposure, prompting recommendations for a “digital diet” to manage device use.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-10: Myopia rates rise among youth in East and Southeast Asia

Rising myopia rates in East and Southeast Asia, driven by urbanization and digital lifestyles, are emerging as a major public health challenge for the younger generation.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/myopia-rates-rise-among-youth-in-east-and-southeast-asia

### 2026-08-02: China expands child health policies to curb myopia and screen‑time attention problems

China’s coordinated health push lowers student myopia to 50.3% and tackles rising screen‑time attention deficits with new standards, screenings and digital‑diet guidelines.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/china-expands-child-health-policies-to-curb-myopia-and-screentime-attention-problems

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Cite as: Youth myopia trends in East and Southeast Asia. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/youth-myopia-trends-in-east-and-southeast-asia