As we approach the arrival of World Sight Day 2023, hosted by the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) on the 12th of October, it serves as a poignant reminder of the profound value of eyesight. Every year, this global event underscores the importance of vision and the imperative to address eye health issues worldwide. This year, on World Sight Day, we aim to cast a spotlight on a growing concern: myopia.
The Myopia Epidemic
For too long, myopia has been dismissed as mere nearsightedness, often addressed with corrective lenses to improve immediate vision. However, this approach is akin to applying a band-aid rather than addressing the underlying issue. Myopia has now reached epidemic proportions and is steadily increasing.
Myopia isn't just a minor inconvenience; it can increase the risk of severe eye problems in later life, including cataracts, glaucoma, and retinal detachment. What's even more concerning is that myopia is becoming increasingly common, especially among children. The excessive use of digital devices, less time spent outdoors, and a lack of awareness are contributing to this alarming trend.
Clearly, the current approach of simply correcting vision with lenses is insufficient. Myopia demands a more comprehensive strategy that includes prevention and management to curb its alarming rise and protect the eye health of both children and adults alike.
Taking Action
On World Sight Day 2023, let's make myopia a central focus. Here's what you can do to address this growing concern:
Regular Eye Checkups: Schedule regular eye exams for yourself and your children. Early detection and timely intervention can help manage myopia effectively. Find a myopia specialist.
Outdoor Time: Encourage outdoor activities to reduce the risk of myopia in children. Spending time in natural light has been shown to have a protective effect.
Limit Screen Time: Be mindful of screen time for work and leisure. Follow the 20-20-20 rule - take a 20-second break every 20 minutes and focus on something 20 feet away.
Sign our change.org petition: Myopia Focus is campaigning to get the NHS to recognise myopia as an ocular disease and to fund myopia management for all children.
World Sight Day 2023 is an opportunity for us to unite in our efforts to combat myopia. Let's work together to protect our vision and the vision of future generations.
If you're a parent whose child has been diagnosed with myopia or if they are struggling with their distance vision, we hope you found MyopiaFocus helpful.
