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Body of research on myopia control strategies continues to grow
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Experts from the U.S., Australia and Switzerland outlined the increasing threat of myopia and potential treatment modalities at the Brien Holden Vision Institute in March, the institute announced in a press release.
Nearly 80 optometrists listened as Serge Resnikoff, MD, PhD; Monica Jong, PhD, BOptom; Brien Holden, BAppSc, PhD, DSc, OAM; and Earl L. Smith, OD, PhD, presented the latest information in these areas.
As detailed in the release, Resnikoff explained that the global growth of myopes between 2000 and 2050 has increased from 136% to 340%.
Jong shared that various studies had reported that an estimated 6% to 26% of blindness is due to pathological myopia in adults.
While the growth is alarming, Smith said that an increasing body of research is identifying several factors that may aid in the reduction of myopia, according to the release. Specifically, he discussed the role that outdoor activities and near work have on myopia.
Holden detailed that the collective use of several myopia strategies such as supplements, pharmaceuticals, lifestyle changes along with contact lenses and spectacles could be effective in controlling myopia.
“We were delighted to offer optometrists the opportunity to not only hear from our experts, but learn more about the prevalence of myopia, the very real threat of high myopia and the role optometrists can play in the bridging the eye health gap,” Emmanuel Calligeros, head of professional development for the Brien Holden Vision Institute, said in the release.