OPTICAL PRISM | FROM THE EDITOR
We take a look at the rising rates of myopia in Canada and concerns from the vision and health communities that COVID-19 health and safety measures , including stay-at-home orders and school closures , are making the problem worse . Our cover story on childhood myopia also looks at some of the innovations and programs that have been developed to slow the progression of myopia .
This month ’ s column from the Canadian Association of Optometrists also examines the myopia issue and the organization ’ s recommendations for eye exams .
CAO president Dr . Harry Bohnsack says while myopia cannot be cured , it can be treated , with glasses , contacts or drops .
The CAO also warns that longer-term complications of myopia are more problematic because it can “ dramatically increase the incidence of other eye disease , including retinal detachments , cataracts and glaucoma .”
The prevalence of myopia is expected to skyrocket from 27 per cent just a decade ago to 52 per cent by 2050 .
Currently , about 30 per cent of the Canadian population is myopic , according to the Canadian Assiciation of Optometrists .
The CAO says myopia is occurring at earlier ages and progressing at faster rates than seen in previous generations .
A recent Canadian study found that myopia increases dramatically from Grade 1 to Grade 8 , but almost a third of cases are undiagnosed .
The troublesome thing is , most children with vision issues are unaware they even have a problem - it ’ s all they know .
That ’ s why vision experts from coast to coast are urging parents to ensure their children receive a comprehensive eye examination before kindergarten and annually after that .
This issue of Optical Prism magazine is focused on children ’ s eye health and options available to children who require vision correction .
Along with articles about myopia management , this issue also includes features on the latest eyewear styles for children as well as new lens technologies to improve a child ’ s vision .
After all , it ’ s been proven that children who like their eyewear and see the benefits of vision correction are more apt to wear their glasses regularly , including at school , where most learning is , in fact , visual .
Please be sure to check out our Facebook , Twitter and Instagram accounts for the latest eyewear and Eyecare news . And check in regularly with us at opticalprism . ca .
DENIS LANGLOIS , Managing editor . Don ’ t forget to check us out on social media and subscribe to us online to get the latest eyecare and eyewear information .
6 OPTICAL PRISM | September 2021