Myopia, or nearsightedness, is becoming more common among children everywhere, including right here in Baldwin County. That’s why myopia control in Orange Beach has become essential for protecting your child’s long-term vision health. Our experienced eye doctor, Dr. Clare L. Wilder, emphasizes the importance of early detection of myopia through regular pediatric eye exams and comprehensive eye exams.
At Coastal Family Eyecare, we offer personalized care, tailoring proven myopia control treatments to each child’s unique needs. With Dr. Wilder’s expertise and our caring team’s dedication, we help slow myopia progression so your child can enjoy clearer vision and healthier eyes for years.
In this blog, we’ll explore why myopia is becoming more common in children and how effective myopia management can help protect your child’s vision.
The growing prevalence of myopia
Evidence shows that myopia is on the rise worldwide. A recent study estimates that about 30% of the world is currently myopic. However, projections suggest this number will nearly double by 2050, reaching around 50% of the population—that’s about 5 billion people.¹ In the United States, myopia rates have almost doubled over the last three decades, now affecting about 42% of Americans.²
This surge means more children are developing myopia at younger ages. The earlier myopia begins, the faster it tends to progress. If left unmanaged, myopia can increase the risk of serious eye problems later in life, such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.
Why is myopia increasing in children?
Several lifestyle and environmental factors contribute to the rising numbers of myopia in kids:
- More near work: Activities like reading and using tablets, smartphones, and computers demand constant focusing on close objects, which can strain young eyes and contribute to myopia progression.
- Less time outdoors: Research shows that spending more time outside reduces the risk of developing myopia.³ Natural outdoor light and focusing on distant objects help eyes develop more healthily.
- Genetics: Children with one or both parents who are myopic have a higher chance of developing myopia themselves.
The importance of early detection
Regular pediatric eye exams play a critical role in identifying myopia early. During these exams, Dr. Wilder will assess your child’s vision and eye health. A comprehensive eye exam can detect myopia before it causes significant vision problems.
Early diagnosis allows for timely intervention with myopia control treatments. These can include specialized contact lenses, such as ortho-k, or lifestyle changes that encourage more outdoor activity.
What can parents do?
If you suspect your child has difficulty seeing distant objects clearly, or if they complain of headaches or eye strain, schedule a pediatric eye exam. Consistent eye exams ensure your child’s vision stays on track.
In Orange Beach, myopia control helps manage the condition to reduce future risks and improve quality of life. Taking an active role in your child’s eye care with guidance from our skilled eye doctor and team can make a real difference.
Why choose Coastal Family Eyecare for myopia management?
At Coastal Family Eyecare, our commitment to providing the best care begins with a team of caring, experienced professionals. Our staff is made up of dedicated women who bring over 80 years of combined experience in eyecare and optical services. Each team member, led by our knowledgeable and compassionate Dr. Wilder, offers both expert skill and a warm, personal touch.
Dr. Wilder specializes in myopia management and is passionate about helping children achieve healthier vision. We offer proven, customized treatment options tailored to each child’s unique needs. With thorough evaluations to ensure treatments like ortho-k are the right fit, we prioritize your child’s eye health and comfort.
Get started with myopia control
Protecting your child’s vision starts with early, regular eye care. Contact us or schedule an appointment online and learn more about myopia control.
References:
3. How does spending time outdoors protect against myopia? A review. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov