Myopia Management
Myopia is the technical name for nearsightedness – that is, when you see close up better than far away without glasses or contact lenses. Myopia is not a natural state for the eye. The higher the myopia (the higher your prescription for nearsightedness), the higher the risk for other ocular conditions like early cataracts, primary open angle glaucoma, and retinal detachments. Myopia often begins in childhood and progresses until early adulthood. Children who have 1 myopic parent have a 1 in 3 chance, or about 33%, of becoming myopic themselves. Children with 2 myopic parents have a 1 in 2 chance, or 50%. Even children whose parents are both not myopic have a 1 in 4 chance, or 25%, of becoming myopic. Whether or not a child may become myopic can often be determined as young as 6 years old, even if the child has excellent vision at that time.
Due to increased screen time and near work, the prevalence of myopia worldwide is increasing. In fact, it is predicted that half the world’s population will be nearsighted by 2050. Luckily, advancements have been made in helping to prevent and/or slow down myopia in children. Options for myopia management include special eye drops and/or special contact lenses.
Dr. Jamie Brosof is certified to treat myopia management by the Brilliant Futures program, which is the only FDA approved myopia management program available at this time. She has multiple options for myopia management available and would be happy to evaluate your child to see if they are a candidate for one or more of these options. A myopia management evaluation includes a dilated vision exam as well as a binocular vision assessment to determine the best course of action for the child.
If you are interested in scheduling a myopia management consult for your child, please call our office at 215-483-1636.
We can’t wait to hear from you
At PA Optometrics, we work with you to make sure you get the care you need of all optometry and vision needs.
If you would like more information about PA Optometrics, please contact us and we will follow up with you directly.
