What are the causes for the rising incidence of spectacle requirements in children ?

All over the world there is an increased prevalence of minus number or myopia. The most common cause of this is the current lifestyle, increase use of mobile and computer and decreased outdoor playtime of children.  It has been proven by research that the increased prevalence of myopia is due to the increase in near activities and focusing on devices like mobile phones. As children play less outdoors, they get less benefit of the sunlight. Another factor could be the absence of a balanced diet in children. Myopia can also increase due to hereditary factors. When both parents have myopia, the chance of myopia in children can go up to 40 %.

How big is the problem of myopia in the general population?

In India it is estimated that in the age group of 5 to 15 years, one third children may develop myopia by 2030. Myopia is more prevalent in the rural areas as compared to the urban areas. In countries like Hong Kong, Singapore the incidence of myopia is nearly 60 to 80 %. Due to the lifestyle the incidence of this problem is likely to rise.

Can we control this huge problem of myopia?

To control this problem, it is important to bring changes in the lifestyle of children.  It is important to undergo regular eye check ups. One must balance the time on the screen and limit the use of computer and mobile. Encouragement to play outdoors in sunlight is essential. To prevent the progression of myopia, atropine eye drops are also available. One can control the progression of myopia by using these drops. Newer age myopia control glasses can also be used to stem the progression of myopia. Dr Ramesh Murthy at AXIS EYE CLINIC has more than 25 years’ experience and has trained at the best eye institutes in India and abroad. His vast experience helps him in tackling the most complex cases with ease. He has a pleasant demeanour and is frank and honest in revealing to the patients beforehand what to expect and what the result will be. He is positive, friendly, and always has a determination to do the best for the patient. Dr Ramesh Murthy is a renowned eye surgeon and one of the best cataract surgeons of Pune, well-known for his excellent results. He is considered among the best eye specialists in Pune. He is also among the best oculoplasty and best squint surgeons and best pediatric ophthalmologist in the city of Pune. He is available at Axis Eye Clinic, Pune which is among the best eye clinics in Pune. Axis Eye Clinic provides comprehensive eye care for all eye related problems. The staff at Axis Eye Clinic are well versed with Mediclaim and insurance procedures and are always there to help you. Axis Eye Clinic is empanelled for cashless eye surgery with all insurance companies and has facilities for Bajaj Finance.