As we observe Myopia Awareness Week, it is crucial to highlight the rapid growth of myopia, also known as short-sightedness, and the significant challenges it poses, particularly in cases of high myopia. At Occuity, we are at the forefront of addressing these challenges with our groundbreaking work on a handheld, non-contact portable biometer. This innovative device is set to revolutionise the measurement of axial length, a critical factor in effective myopia management.
Myopia Awareness Week: The Rising Tide of Myopia
Myopia is becoming a global epidemic, with alarming rates of increase, particularly among children and young adults. The World Council of Optometry has underscored the urgency of this issue, stating:
The myopia epidemic is a growing public health concern. Without proper intervention, the prevalence of myopia is projected to affect nearly 50% of the world's population by 2050.
Here are some key statistics that highlight the pressing nature of this issue:
By 2050, 5 billion people are expected to be myopic, representing half of the global population.
High myopia, which increases the risk of severe eye conditions, is projected to affect nearly 10% of the population by the same year.
Children are particularly at risk, with lifestyle changes such as increased screen time and reduced outdoor activities contributing to the rise in myopia cases.
The Importance of Axial Length Monitoring
Axial length refers to the distance from the front to the back of the eye. As myopia progresses, the eyeball can grow too quickly or continue to grow for too long, leading to an increase in axial length. This excessive growth can result in higher degrees of myopia and elevate the risk of severe eye conditions such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and myopic maculopathy. Monitoring axial length growth is essential for the effective management of myopia because it allows for:
Early detection of rapid myopia progression, enabling timely intervention.
Accurate assessment of the effectiveness of myopia control treatments.
Tailored treatment plans to slow the progression of myopia and reduce the risk of complications.
Jason Higginbotham, Optometrist and Clinical Director at Occuity, emphasises the importance of our work in this area:
Accurately measuring axial length is crucial for myopia management. Our handheld, non-contact portable biometer represents a significant advancement in this field, offering precise, user-friendly measurements that can be easily integrated into routine eye care. This device will empower optometrists to better monitor and manage myopia, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
Occuity’s Innovative Solution
At Occuity, we are committed to developing advanced, accessible technologies that address the growing myopia epidemic. Our handheld, non-contact portable biometer is designed to provide accurate and reliable axial length measurements in a convenient, patient-friendly manner. This device will be a gamechanger for both practitioners and patients, offering:
Ease of use in various settings, from clinics to schools.
Non-invasive, comfortable measurements that are especially beneficial for children.
High precision and reliability to support effective myopia management strategies.
As we continue our work on this innovative biometer, we remain dedicated to raising awareness about myopia and its impacts, and to providing optometrists with the tools they need to combat this growing issue. Together, we can make significant strides in managing myopia and safeguarding the vision health of future generations.
For more information on our myopia management solutions and the upcoming launch of our handheld biometer, stay tuned to the Occuity blog and our social media channels.
To find out more about myopia visit: www.myopiafocus.org
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