Myopia, or nearsightedness, has emerged as a prevalent ocular issue among children in Singapore, with a staggering 65 per cent of 12-year-olds affected by it. A shocking 20 per cent of children have high myopia, which can have severe consequences if left untreated. This article will examine the dangers of high myopia, the reasons behind its prevalence, and the treatment options available to safeguard your child’s vision.
As per Dr. Janice Lam, a consultant ophthalmic surgeon at the National University Hospital (NUH), high myopia refers to an eye with a myopic refraction of -6D or worse. The elongation of the eyeball caused by high myopia can lead to retinal detachment, a condition that raises the risk of permanent blindness. Moreover, high myopia increases the likelihood of children developing eye diseases in adulthood, such as myopic macular degeneration, cataract, and glaucoma.
The prevalence of myopia in children has been linked to frequent near-work activities on digital devices and a genetic predisposition. In Singapore, most children are diagnosed with myopia during primary school health screenings, and the condition is increasingly occurring at a younger age. However, myopia can stabilize as children reach late adolescence to early adulthood, although some cases of progressive myopia can persist into the early 20s.
The elongation of the eyeball due to myopia can lead to retinal detachment, causing symptoms such as floaters, flashes of light, partial vision loss, or seeing a “black curtain”. Immediate medical attention should be sought if a child experiences any of these symptoms to prevent permanent blindness.
Thankfully, there are methods to slow down the progression of myopia in children. Lifestyle adjustments such as reducing near-work time, taking frequent breaks, and spending at least two hours outdoors daily can be beneficial. Additionally, low-dose atropine eyedrops have proven effective in retarding myopia progression and are considered safe for children.
For children requiring visual aids, there are spectacle lenses such as HALT and DIMS that have been shown to control myopia progression. Contact lenses like MiSight 1 day and orthokeratology lenses can also help in slowing down the elongation of the eye and are suitable for children as young as six years old.
When considering contact lenses for your child, it is essential to consult with an optometrist to evaluate their suitability and ensure that they are capable of adhering to the necessary hygiene practices. The risk of infection and other complications can be mitigated by using daily replacement contact lenses for children who may struggle with maintaining proper hygiene.
In conclusion, the prevalence of high myopia in children is a growing concern, but there are effective measures to address and manage this issue. By understanding the risks associated with high myopia and being proactive in seeking appropriate treatment, parents can help protect their child’s vision and prevent serious eye problems in the future.