A Preventative Measure Of High Myopia

As myopia rates continue to rise among children in Singapore, myopia control eyeglasses have become a vital tool in managing this condition. Myopia control eyeglasses not only correct refractive errors but also effectively manage the progression of near-sightedness in prevention of high myopia in children. These specialized lenses come at a higher cost compared to traditional single-vision eyeglasses. Therefore, parents often wonder how to gauge the effectiveness of these specialized lenses.

Having an effective myopia management plan early can help prevent the progression to high myopia, generally defined as near-sightedness of over -5D (500 degrees). This proactive approach can safeguard the child's eye health in the years to come.

Here are four signs that might indicate that your child’s myopia control eyeglasses are working.

1. Stabilized Prescription

One of the most significant indicators that myopia control lenses are effective is a stabilized prescription. Regular eye exams will show whether your child’s myopia is progressing. If the prescription remains stable or increases at a much slower rate than before, it’s a strong sign that the glasses are doing their job. Effective myopia control can reduce progression by 30-60%, such as Essilor® Stellest® lenses can slow down myopia progression by 67%¹ compared to single vision lenses, when worn for 12 hours a day, every day.

What to Look For:

• Minor Prescription Adjustments: Look for fewer changes in the prescription during annual eye health check-ups or as recommended by the optometrist.
• Stable Axial Length: If eye exams include measurements of eyeball length, a consistent or reduced growth rate indicates effective control.

2. Uninterrupted Sharp Vision

With effective myopia control lenses, there will be lesser prescription changes due to an increase in their myopia. On the contrary, if left uncontrolled, myopia can quickly progress. This progression can go unnoticed, resulting in blurry vision during class and having a negative impact on your child’s learning process.

What to Look For:

• Unable to see the whiteboard at school
• Squinting while doing homework, reading or watching TV
• Frequent rubbing and/or blinking of eyes
• Eye fatigue
• Abnormal head posture

3. Increased Interest in Outdoor Activities

By providing clear vision, myopia control lenses can boost your child’s confidence, promoting a greater interest in outdoor play and activities. Moreover, Essilor® Stellest® lenses are available in six fun and cool exciting sun tint colours to provide UV and glare protection so that your child can enjoy spending time outdoors.

Research has indicated that spending more time outdoors can help mitigate or slow-down myopia progression. It is also recommended by the Health Promotion Board (HPB) to spend at least 2 hours per day outdoors.

What to Look For:

• Active Participation: Watch for your child’s willingness to join outdoor games, sports, or family activities outside.
• Social Engagement: An increase in outdoor social interactions can be a sign of comfort and confidence in their vision.

4. Positive Feedback from Teachers and Peers

Another sign that myopia control eyeglasses are working can come from outside the home. Teachers and peers may notice changes in your child’s engagement and performance in school. If educators report that your child is more focused, participates actively, and demonstrates improved performance in class, it’s a good indicator that the glasses are effective.

What to Look For:

• Enhanced Classroom Participation: Teachers may note increased engagement during lessons or group activities.
• Improved Academic Performance: Look for positive feedback about your child's focus and performance on assignments and tests.

Identifying the signs that myopia control eyeglasses are effective can provide reassurance to parents about their child’s eye health. By monitoring stabilized prescription changes, improved visual comfort, increased outdoor activity, and positive feedback from teachers, you can be confident that the lenses are making a positive impact. Regular eye health check-ups with a certified optometrist are essential to track these signs and ensure your child continues on the path to better vision. This also allows the optometrist to review the treatment plan, which may need to be adjusted based on any changes in the child's lifestyle.

W OPTICS is a Child Development Account (CDA) approved institution.

References: 
1. Bao J, Huang Y, Li X, Yang A, Zhou F, Wu J, Wang C, Li Y, Lim EW, Spiegel DP, Drobe B, Chen, H. Spectacle lenses with aspherical lenslets for myopia control vs single-vision spectacle lenses: a randomized clinical trial. JAMA ophthalmology. 2022;140(5):472-8. doi:10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2022.0401