Last Updated:
In 2020, myopia impacted nearly 30% of the global population, a figure that is projected to rise to 50% by 2050, with an estimated 740 million young people potentially impacted due to shifting lifestyles and environmental factors.
Myopia is expected to hit more than 740 million by the year 2050. (Representative Image)
Myopia, or nearsightedness, is rapidly escalating into a significant public health issue, especially in urbanised regions across South Asia. With the pace of urbanisation in low- and middle-income countries, this “myopia epidemic” is likely to intensify further, affecting a broader population and placing increased demands on healthcare systems worldwide. In 2020, myopia impacted nearly 30% of the global population, a figure that is projected to rise to 50% by 2050, with an estimated 740 million young people potentially impacted due to shifting lifestyles and environmental factors. Dr Lav Kochgaway , Executive Director, Netralayam Kolkata shares all you need to know.
Environmental and lifestyle shifts
A key driver behind this surge in myopia cases is the shift in daily routines and exposure to natural light. As children spend less time outdoors and more time engaged in screen-related activities, their exposure to sunlight decreases. Numerous studies have shown that natural light can help reduce the risk of myopia by slowing down the elongation of the eyeball, a characteristic of the condition. However, as low- and middle-income countries urbanise, the opportunity for outdoor activity decreases, amplifying the impact of lifestyle choices on eye health.
The rise in myopia cases among Indian children is an example of this shift. In 2019, the prevalence of myopia among urban Indian children was reported at 21.2%. By 2050, this figure is expected to reach 48.1%, mirroring global trends and highlighting the urgent need for awareness and intervention in fast-urbanising regions.
The role of education and screen time
The influence of education on myopia rates has been well-documented. As academic demands rise and children spend longer hours on close-up work, their eyes are subjected to increased strain. The ubiquitous presence of screens, whether for education or entertainment, compounds this issue. Blue light exposure from digital devices is thought to contribute to eye strain and fatigue, potentially accelerating myopia onset.
This shift is evident in regions where urbanisation has led to more screen time. The resulting lack of outdoor exposure has fueled a rise in nearsightedness, particularly in countries like India, where urban lifestyles now emphasise indoor learning environments over outdoor play.
Genetic predisposition and family history
Genetics remain a significant factor in myopia development, but current trends suggest that environmental influences are amplifying these genetic predispositions. Children with one myopic parent have a 25-30% chance of developing myopia, and this likelihood doubles if both parents are affected. Still, the rapid rise in cases points to lifestyle and environmental factors as major contributors to the epidemic, acting in combination with genetics to heighten susceptibility.
Urbanisation and modern living
In densely populated cities, where access to outdoor areas is often limited, children may have fewer opportunities to engage in outdoor play. This factor contributes to the higher prevalence of myopia in urban settings compared to rural areas, where outdoor exposure is more common. Urbanised environments present unique challenges to eye health, especially as urbanisation is projected to continue rising globally, impacting even those who may not have been traditionally susceptible to myopia.
The economic impact
The implications of myopia’s spread extend beyond individual health, influencing economies and healthcare systems worldwide. Vision-related productivity losses and the costs associated with corrective measures create economic burdens for both families and healthcare providers. With more people projected to suffer from high myopia, which can lead to severe complications, the demand for eye care services will only increase, placing further strain on healthcare infrastructure, particularly in urbanising regions.
Emerging interventions and solutions
Given the widespread impact of the myopia epidemic, various interventions are being explored to curb its progression. Encouraging outdoor play for children and balancing screen time with physical activity are among the most accessible solutions for families and schools. Sunlight exposure, ideally two hours a day, has shown positive effects on eye health and helps mitigate myopia’s development.
Technological advances also present promising solutions. In countries with high myopia rates, including South Asian nations, eyeglasses, contact lenses, and low-dose atropine eye drops are being adopted to slow progression in young people. Orthokeratology lenses, which reshape the cornea temporarily, are also gaining traction as an option for managing daily myopia symptoms.
Looking ahead
Addressing the myopia epidemic will require a collective effort from families, educators, and policymakers, who can promote balanced lifestyles and eye health education. With targeted preventive measures, increased awareness, and innovative treatments, it’s possible to slow myopia’s spread and minimise its impact on future generations. The projected figures for 2050 showcase the urgency of implementing preventive measures now, ensuring that children and young adults worldwide are equipped to protect their vision against the pressures of modern living.