Myopia Crisis: Indonesian study Highlights Urgent need for Early Eye Care Intervention in children
Table of Contents
- 1. Myopia Crisis: Indonesian study Highlights Urgent need for Early Eye Care Intervention in children
- 2. Jakarta Study Reveals High Rates of Undiagnosed Myopia in Children
- 3. The myopia Epidemic: A Growing Global Concern
- 4. The Dire Consequences of Uncontrolled Myopia
- 5. Miyosmart Lens: A Potential Game-Changer in Myopia Control
- 6. Taking Action: A Call to American Parents and Educators
- 7. What measures can children use to decrease the risk of myopia?
- 8. Combating the Myopia Epidemic in Children: An Interview with dr.Anya Sharma
- 9. The Jakarta Study and its Implications
- 10. Myopia Management: A Proactive Approach
- 11. Looking Ahead: A Call to Action
A recent study in Jakarta reveals a startling prevalence of myopia among schoolchildren, underscoring the critical need for proactive vision screening adn management programs. The “Glasses of Hope” initiative sheds light on the silent epidemic threatening the eyesight and futures of countless children.
Jakarta Study Reveals High Rates of Undiagnosed Myopia in Children
A collaborative initiative called “Glasses of Hope,” involving Hoya Indonesia, Perdami SPGR (Indonesian Eye Specialist Association, Refraction Prevention Section), and Optics SEIS, recently conducted a free eye screening campaign at SMPN 92 Jakarta on February 17-18, 2025. The results were alarming: out of 701 students screened, 36.4% needed glasses, and 14% of those needing glasses were diagnosed with high myopia (a severe form of nearsightedness, exceeding -5.00 diopters).
This translates to a meaningful portion of children walking around unaware of their vision impairment and the potential long-term consequences. The study highlights a critical gap in awareness – both among children and their parents – regarding the importance of regular eye examinations and the proper management of myopia.
“We found that many children who experience high myopia but do not realise it, or assume the use of glasses is not important. Actually, without the right correction, this condition can continue to worsen and risk of causing serious vision disorders in the future,”
Dodi Rukminto, Managing Director of Hoya Indonesia.
the implications of undiagnosed and unmanaged myopia are far-reaching. As All About Vision notes, “When a child’s vison problems go undiagnosed and unmanaged, their whole life can be affected. School and activities may be unnecessarily challenging, and they could face increased risk for serious eye problems in the future.”
The myopia Epidemic: A Growing Global Concern
High myopia is not just a refractive error; it’s a serious public health concern. Globally, the prevalence of myopia is increasing at an alarming rate.Lifestyle changes, particularly increased screen time and reduced outdoor activities, are significant contributing factors.
Experts predict that by 2050, nearly 10% of the global population – a staggering 938 million people – will be affected by high myopia. This represents a more than fivefold increase as 2000.This concerning trend has prompted researchers and eye care professionals worldwide to seek effective strategies for myopia control and prevention.
The situation in the U.S. mirrors this global trend. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), vision impairment affects millions of Americans, and uncorrected refractive errors like myopia are a leading cause.While specific statistics on high myopia prevalence in U.S.children are still being gathered, the general rise in myopia cases signals a need for increased awareness and proactive intervention.
| Region | Projected Myopia Cases (2050) | Percentage of Global Population |
|---|---|---|
| Global | 938 Million | 9.8% |
The Dire Consequences of Uncontrolled Myopia
Allowing myopia to progress unchecked can lead to a cascade of serious eye health issues. these include:
- Myopic Maculopathy: Damage to the central part of the retina, leading to distorted vision.
- Retinal Detachment: Separation of the retina from the back of the eye, requiring immediate medical attention.
- Glaucoma: Damage to the optic nerve, possibly leading to blindness.
- Increased Risk of Cataracts: Clouding of the natural lens of the eye.
- Permanent Blindness: In severe, untreated cases.
The Jakarta study reinforces the urgency of addressing this issue head-on. Without preventive measures and proper management, children with myopia are at risk of developing these debilitating complications, impacting their quality of life and placing a burden on healthcare systems.
Miyosmart Lens: A Potential Game-Changer in Myopia Control
Recognizing the growing need for effective myopia management solutions, Hoya vision Care has developed the Miyosmart lens. This innovative lens utilizes Defocus Incorporated Multiple segments (DIMS) technology, which has been clinically proven to slow down myopia progression by up to 60%.
the Miyosmart lens works by creating a “myopic defocus” effect, where the peripheral vision receives a slightly blurred image.This signals the eye to slow down its growth, thus reducing the progression of myopia.
Since its launch in Indonesia in late 2022, Miyosmart has reportedly helped thousands of children manage their myopia. Now, in response to the high prevalence of high myopia, Hoya Vision Care is expanding the size range of the Miyosmart lens to accommodate higher prescriptions, up to -13.00 diopters with astigmatism correction up to 4.00D.
“With the increase in high-level myopia cases worldwide, attention to the health of children is at the highest point of all time. This is the reason Hoya vision Care is committed to early detection and myopia management, because every child has the right to get better vision,”
John Goltermann Lassen, CEO of Hoya Vision Care.
Taking Action: A Call to American Parents and Educators
The findings from the “Glasses of Hope” program serve as a wake-up call for parents and educators in the United States. early detection and management of myopia are crucial for protecting children’s vision and ensuring their future well-being.
Here are some practical steps that parents and educators can take:
- Schedule Regular Eye Exams: The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that children have their first eye exam at 6 months of age, another at age 3, and then every one to two years thereafter.
- Be Aware of the Signs of Myopia: These include frequent squinting, sitting close to the television, holding books close to the face, and complaining of blurry vision.
- Encourage Outdoor Activities: Studies have shown that spending time outdoors can definitely help reduce the risk of myopia development.
- Limit Screen Time: Excessive screen time can strain the eyes and contribute to myopia progression.Encourage children to take breaks and follow the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds).
- Discuss Myopia Management Options with Your Eye Doctor: These may include specialized eyeglasses like Miyosmart, contact lenses, or atropine eye drops.
By taking these proactive steps, we can help protect the vision of American children and ensure that they have the opportunity to reach their full potential. The time to act is now—let’s make myopia management a national priority.
“Myopia in school children, especially high myopia, not just ordinary refraction disorders, if not corrected can make the child’s learning process not optimal. Parents must be proactive in ensuring their children get an appropriate eye examination and correction,”
Dr. Dr. Tri Rahayu,SpM (K),Fiacle,Chair of the Perdami SPGR
What measures can children use to decrease the risk of myopia?
Combating the Myopia Epidemic in Children: An Interview with dr.Anya Sharma
Interviewer: Welcome to Archyde News. Today, we have Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading pediatric ophthalmologist, to discuss the concerning rise of myopia, or nearsightedness, in children, especially considering recent findings from a study in Jakarta. Dr. Sharma,thank you for joining us.
Dr.Sharma: Thank you for having me.It’s a crucial topic, and I’m glad we’re shining a light on it.
The Jakarta Study and its Implications
Interviewer: The “Glasses of Hope” initiative in Jakarta revealed some alarming statistics.Can you elaborate on the key takeaways for our audience?
Dr. Sharma: Certainly. The study highlighted a notable prevalence of undiagnosed myopia among schoolchildren. Almost 36.4% of the students screened needed glasses, and a concerning 14% of those had high myopia. This underscores the need for regular eye exams, as so many children are unaware of their vision impairment.
Interviewer: That’s a striking figure. What are the long-term implications of unmanaged myopia, especially high myopia, in children?
Dr. Sharma: If left untreated,high myopia can lead to serious complications. the risks increase with uncorrected myopia including myopic maculopathy, retinal detachment, glaucoma, cataracts, and even permanent blindness. Early intervention is crucial to prevent these devastating outcomes.
Myopia Management: A Proactive Approach
Interviewer: The article mentions the Miyosmart lens as a potential solution. How does this technology work, and what makes it a promising tool in myopia control?
Dr. Sharma: Miyosmart lenses utilize DIMS, or defocus Incorporated Multiple segments, technology. They create a “myopic defocus” effect, which essentially slows down the eye’s growth. This can significantly reduce the progression of myopia.Clinical trials have shown that Miyosmart lenses can slow myopia progression by up to 60%.
Interviewer: It truly seems the focus is shifting towards early intervention. Besides specialized lenses, what other recommendations do you have for parents and educators?
Dr. Sharma: Absolutely. Early detection is key. I recommend parents ensure their children have regular eye exams according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s guidelines. Parents should also be aware of the signs of myopia, such as squinting and sitting close to the television. Promoting outdoor activities, limiting screen time, and discussing myopia management options with an eye doctor are also essential steps.
Looking Ahead: A Call to Action
Interviewer: The article also states that, globally, experts predict that nearly 10% of the global population will be affected by high myopia by 2050. What further steps can be taken to combat this global health issue?
Dr. Sharma: We need increased public awareness, more research, and improved access to eye care, particularly in underserved communities.The growth rate of myopia is growing. It is indeed so critically important to engage in early detection and proper management. We can incorporate vision screening programs into schools and early childhood education programs, as well as inform and educate parents. We also need to consider lifestyle changes, such as reducing screen time and encouraging quality outdoor time as part of myopia control.
Interviewer: The article and the Jakarta study stress the importance of acting now. What is the most important message you’d like to leave our viewers with today?
Dr. Sharma: The message is clear: myopia is a serious and growing concern. By taking proactive steps like regular eye exams and discussing myopia management with an eye care professional, parents and educators can protect the vision and futures of our children. Let’s make myopia management a national priority.
Interviewer: Dr. Sharma, thank you for your insights. It’s a conversation that calls for us to act very swiftly. We appreciate your time.
Dr. Sharma: My pleasure.
Interviewer: that was Dr. Anya Sharma. We will share information about eye health and strategies through our website. What are your thoughts? Which measures can children use to decrease the risk of myopia? Share your thoughts by adding a comment below.
