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The Myopia Epidemic: Why Annual Eye Exams Matter More Than Ever

Group of children outdoors playfully making "glasses" with their hands, emphasizing the importance of outdoor activities in preventing myopia.

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is one of the fastest-growing vision problems worldwide. Research shows that by 2050 nearly 5 billion people — half the world’s population — will be myopic, and 1 billion will develop high myopia, a more severe form that increases risks of serious eye diseases. [Study link]

Why Myopia Is Rising

Lifestyle changes play a big role. Today’s kids spend more time on screens and close-up work, while spending less time outdoors than previous generations. This combination has fueled a sharp rise in childhood myopia.

Why It Matters for Families

Myopia isn’t just about needing glasses. Higher levels of nearsightedness can lead to:

  • Retinal detachment
  • Glaucoma
  • Cataracts
  • Macular degeneration

That’s why annual eye exams are so important — to catch changes early and help protect your child’s long-term eye health.

New Options to Slow Myopia Progression

At Fox Run Eye Care, we are proud to offer advanced solutions that go beyond traditional glasses:

  • Essilor Stellest™ glasses – the first FDA-authorized spectacle lens clinically proven to slow myopia progression in children. Learn more in our Essilor Stellest blog.
  • MiSight® 1 day contact lenses – FDA-approved daily disposable contacts designed for children 8–12 at the start of therapy.
  • Vision Pro Edge™ vitamins – nutritional support for healthy eye growth.
  • Anti-fatigue lenses – designed for digital learning and reducing eye strain in the classroom.

Take Action Now

Eyeglasses in focus with an eye chart displaying letters, emphasizing the importance of eye exams for children's myopia management at Fox Run Eye Care.

The myopia epidemic is a global challenge, but solutions are available today — right here in Greenland, NH. Scheduling your child’s annual eye exam is the first step in protecting their sight for the future.

📍 Fox Run Eye Care
603 Portsmouth Ave, Greenland, NH 03840
📞 (603) 828-9601
🌐 foxruneyecare.com

References

  • Holden BA, Fricke TR, Wilson DA, et al. Global Prevalence of Myopia and High Myopia and Temporal Trends from 2000 through 2050. Ophthalmic and Physiological Optics. 2016;36(5):602–625.

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