Spotlight on Pediatric Myopia

The most common vision problems for children are the same as those for adults. They include myopia or “nearsightedness”, hyperopia or “farsightedness”, and astigmatism, which is an irregular shape of the front surface of the cornea. However, one of these common vision issues in particular is increasing in the pediatric demographic at an alarming rate.

Pediatric Myopia On the Rise

Myopia causes poor long-distance vision, where close-up objects appear clear but far-away ones are blurry. Globally, myopia is on the rise in children, becoming what some experts have described as a public health crisis. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the occurrence of myopia in American children has doubled in the U.S., from 20% in the 1990s to 36% in 2023, and that number continues to grow.

While there is certainly a hereditary factor to myopia, experts generally agree that the significant increase in recent years is likely related to environmental factors. Primarily, increased screen time and less time spent outdoors, which can result in a deficiency in natural sunlight exposure.

Not surprisingly, many parents are concerned about their children developing progressive nearsightedness (myopia) as they increasingly use multiple digital devices at home and at school. It is a fair concern and one that we share at Cargo Eye Care of Las Colinas.

To address this disturbing issue, we have developed a dedicated pediatric myopia management program and offer several options that can actually slow the progression of myopia in children. Schedule an appointment with one of our experienced doctors to learn more about these leading-edge treatments.

Four Ways to Slow Pediatric Myopia Progression

It is possible to control myopia if caught early. We have had great success in slowing the progression of our younger patients who come through our pediatric myopia program using a variety of treatment modalities depending on each unique situation.

1. Atropine Eye Drops. Several studies have shown that atropine 0.01% drops are effective in slowing myopia progression in young children. This easy, minimally invasive treatment consists of an eye drop applied daily at bedtime for one year.  
2. MiSight One-Day Contact Lens. This is the first easy-to-use, single-use soft contact lens that is clinically proven to slow the progression of myopia when initially prescribed for children 8-12 years old. It works by correcting vision and slowing the elongation of the eye.
3. Euclid Lenses. This gentle, non-surgical treatment uses specially-designed contact lenses that reduce the effect of myopia with continuous overnight wear. These lenses are made specifically for your child’s unique eyes, and they work comfortably to gently reshape the cornea to correct vision while they sleep.
4. Lens Screen Time/More Outdoor Time. This one is typically popular with the parents! Studies show that nearsightedness slowed down in children who spent at least two hours a day outside. 

Recommended: Regular Eye Exams for Children

Children’s vision issues can be harder to detect because they can’t always communicate a vision challenge, and sometimes aren’t even aware that they are seeing differently than other children. Children with undiagnosed poor vision can have developmental problems that are sometimes misdiagnosed as ADHD or other learning disabilities.

An annual eye exam will test to make sure the patient can see both near and far away, make sure their eyes work together to focus on a single object, and that their eyes are free of disease. According to the American Optometric Association, children should have their first eye exam at 6 months of age, another at age 3, and again when they start school. Children without risk factors should continue to have their eyes examined every two years until age 18. Children with risk factors (including premature birth, developmental delays and a family history of eye disease) should see their eye doctor more frequently.

Our Caring Providers

Jonathan Cargo, OD

Founder of Cargo Eye Care of Las Colinas, Dr. Cargo specializes in ocular therapeutics, disease treatment and comprehensive vision care for patients of all ages. He holds an extended scope license that allows him to prescribe oral medications and treat glaucoma. He also has advanced training in laser and minor surgery.

Saaleha Savani, O.D.

Dr. Savani has a passion for personalized eye care and a foundation in specialty lenses and myopia management. She has experience in pediatric care, specialty lens fittings, myopia management and disease management. She has an extended scope license for prescribing oral medications and managing and treating glaucoma.

At Cargo Eye Care, we are committed to improving the quality of life of all our patients with the opportunity to see better. We want to make sure parents are aware, informed and equipped to make important decisions for their children’s ocular health. Schedule an appointment today, and let’s ensure your child sees life with the vision they deserve.