Shining a light on childhood eye disease

With Jamaica just concluding its observance of Child Month in May, a time dedicated to honouring and uplifting the nation’s youths, there is an urgent issue that needs attention, childhood eye diseases, particularly myopia.

This condition is clouding the vision of many children across the island, impacting their education and overall quality of life.

Vision care provider Eye Q Optical is front and centre in tackling the issue.

Myopia is a condition where distant objects appear blurry while close ones might be seen clearly.

Symptoms often emerge during school years and can typically include squinting, frequent headaches, and difficulty seeing the board; although none might be apparent. The rise of digital device usage has only exacerbated this condition. Myopia, or near-sightedness, has seen a troubling rise in prevalence globally, increasing from 22 per cent in 2000 to 33 per cent in 2020. By 2050, it is projected that half the world’s population could be affected.

This condition, caused by excessive eye growth during childhood, not only leads to vision deterioration, but also heightens the risk of serious eye diseases in adulthood, such as myopic macular degeneration, retinal detachment, and glaucoma.

“Children spend a lot more time on screens these days, which can strain their visual system and contribute to the development of myopia,” explained Dr Aron Wohl, CEO and lead optometrist at Eye Q Optical.

Diagnosis of myopia involves a comprehensive eye exam, where optometrists assess the degree of refractive error. Early detection is critical, as Myopia can progress rapidly in children, potentially leading to more severe vision problems in adulthood. At Eye Q Optical, cutting-edge diagnostic tools and personalised care ensure accurate detection and effective management of this condition. It is recommended that all children have a comprehensive examination by five years old.

One innovative treatment offered by Eye Q Optical is the MiYOSMART spectacle lenses. These lenses are specifically designed for children and use a revolutionary technology to slow the progression of myopia.

“MiYOSMART spectacle lenses have been a game-changer. They help in significantly reducing the rate at which myopia progresses in children, ensuring they have better vision health in the long run,” said Wohl.

Apart from corrective lenses, other treatment options include therapeutic soft contact lenses, orthokeratology (rigid lenses worn overnight to temporarily reshape the cornea), and atropine eye drops that slow myopia progression. However, lifestyle changes also play a pivotal role in managing this condition. Encouraging children to take regular breaks from screens, spending more time outdoors, and ensuring as much distance as possible between the eyes and the screen while reading or doing homework can help mitigate the effects of myopia.

Eye Q Optical emphasises the importance of routine eye check-ups for children. Regular visits not only help in early detection, but also in monitoring the progression of existing conditions.

“Parents should bring their children for eye exams at least once a year, even if there are no apparent issues,” advises Wohl. “Early intervention is key to preventing long-term complications and ensuring healthy vision development.”

Awareness about myopia and its impacts can drive communities to prioritise eye health.

Though concerning, myopia significantly affects children’s eye health, but with the right knowledge and resources, it can be effectively managed.