“Utilising a Myopia Predictive Calculator combined with a Myopia Control Protocol”
BY Nick Dash: Optometrist, B.Sc. Hons (Optom) MCOptom, Dip SVA. and Pascal Blaser: Optometrist, M.Sc. in Vision Sciences (Optometry)
Eye Care Specialists and researchers have reported an increased prevalence of myopia across the world. The inevitable consequence of this trend is potentially catastrophic to those patients who will not simply have greater dependency of stronger and thicker spectacles and contact lenses, but moreover, increased risk of Myopic Eye Disease and potential sight threatening conditions later in life.
This has led to the prediction that, Globally 1 Billion people at risk of blindness by 2050 and Myopia being a concern highlighted by the World Health Organisation.
Prominent researchers have shown us evidence that high myopia must be now considered an important risk factor for developing significant ocular pathologies leading to visual impairment, such as glaucoma, maculopathy, or retinal detachment that comprises ‘Myopic Eye Disease’. This concerns every myope, not only the most severe cases.
Eye care practitioners (ECPs) should not only correct or chase vision errors but we have a duty to treat or prevent ocular pathology. Implementation of a myopia limitation strategy will become a core service when having eye care examinations and vision correction in children and young adults.
Use of a Myopia Predictive Calculator and Management Strategy ‘myopia.care’ will target and offer guidance to deliver a care plan for those ‘at risk’ of myopic eye disease. Supporting the full pathway from child, parent and professional. All based on World Leading Research and Practical Professional Experience from the last 8 years of delivering practical Myopia Control.