The prevalence of myopia (nearsightedness) in children world wide is skyrocketing.  Until now, there was no way to slow or prevent this as the child grows.  But research is increasingly showing that we can control this condition with rather simple, safe and affordable ways.  At Eyes & Optics, we are using soft contact lens bifocal technology, and sometimes, mild atropine eye drops, and we are seeing a 40% reduction in myopic progression!!!  This can prevent increasing risk of several eye diseases found in highly nearsighted adults, including retinal detachment and glaucoma, and reduce the need for thick glasses and LASIK surgery.

Other steps parents can take to reduce myopic progression include more outdoor play at the critical ages of 9-12.  Full spectrum sunlight helps create hormone changes that slow the growth of the eyes.  Interestingly, computers and reading were found to not contribute much to the problem, except that the kids are not outside enough.  

Children should be screened in the first year of life and then again at 4-5 years old to identify myopia as soon as possible.  Call today to schedule your child for an exam.