The Growing Concern of Pediatric Myopia: How to Protect Your Child's Vision

September 8, 2025

Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is on the rise among children worldwide. What was once considered a minor issue has now become a growing public health concern, with studies showing that nearly half the global population may be affected by myopia by 2050. For children, the stakes are particularly high - early onset often leads to faster progression and a greater risk of developing high myopia, which can cause serious vision complications later in life.
 

Understanding Childhood Myopia

When a child develops myopia at an early age, the condition typically worsens as they grow. High myopia significantly increases the risk of sight-threatening conditions such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and cataracts. Protecting your child’s vision begins with awareness and proactive eye care.
 

The Importance of Pediatric Eye Exams

Routine pediatric eye exams are the first line of defense in managing myopia. Unlike school screenings, comprehensive eye exams with an optometrist can detect subtle vision changes, evaluate eye health, and identify myopia in its earliest stages. Catching the condition early allows for timely intervention and reduces the risk of long-term complications.
 

Myopia Management Options

Fortunately, advances in eye care have made it possible to slow the progression of myopia in children. These management options go beyond traditional glasses and aim to protect long-term eye health:

• Lifestyle Changes - Encouraging outdoor time, limiting prolonged screen use, and balancing near-work activities can also help protect your child’s eyes.

• Atropine Eye Drops - Low-dose atropine has been shown to significantly slow down myopia progression without major side effects.

• Multifocal Contact Lenses - Specially designed lenses help correct vision while reducing strain that can contribute to worsening myopia.
 

Protecting Your Child’s Vision for the Future

Myopia management isn’t about eliminating the need for glasses - it’s about safeguarding your child’s vision and lowering the risks of serious eye conditions later in life. With the right care, you can help ensure your child enjoys clear, healthy vision for years to come.
 

Take the First Step in Myopia Management at Helmus Optometry

Pediatric myopia is a growing concern, but early detection and treatment can make a lasting difference. By scheduling regular pediatric eye exams and exploring proven myopia management options like atropine eye drops and multifocal contact lenses, you can take proactive steps to protect your child’s vision now and in the future.

Schedule a pediatric eye exam at Helmus Optometry to learn more about protecting your child’s eyes from the risks of myopia. Visit our office in Davis, California, or call (530) 758-2122 to book an appointment today.