The Growing Prevalence of Myopia – And How LASIK MD Can Help
The prevalence of myopia, also known as nearsightedness, has been rising at an alarming rate. New research published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology highlights that the global rate of myopia among children and teens has tripled over the past three decades. The study, which reviewed 276 papers published up to June 2023, found that more than one in three children and teens worldwide are now myopic—compared to just one in nine in 1990.
The trend has accelerated even further since the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020. "Emerging evidence suggests a potential association between the pandemic and accelerated vision deterioration among young adults," the study notes. Researchers forecast that if this trajectory continues, more than 740 million children and teens—over half the global population in this age group—will be myopic by 2050.
Closer to home, the rate of myopia among Canadian children is estimated at approximately 25%, according to the same study. While this figure is below the international average, it represents a significant increase compared to findings from 2018, when a paper by the University of Waterloo estimated the prevalence at 17.5%.
The combination of factors like increased screen time, reduced exposure to natural light, and limited outdoor activities has been identified as key contributors to this surge in myopia. While prevention strategies, such as encouraging more outdoor play, can help slow the trend, many people will need to seek other treatment options.
Tackling the Rise in Myopia with LASIK
Fortunately, advancements in vision correction, such as LASIK, offer a long-term solution for managing myopia and improving quality of life. Myopia occurs when the shape of the eye causes light to focus incorrectly on the retina, resulting in blurry vision for distant objects. While glasses and contact lenses offer short-term fixes for myopic vision, LASIK provides a more permanent approach. By reshaping the cornea, LASIK corrects how light is focused on the eye, often reducing or even eliminating the need for corrective lenses.
Beyond myopia, LASIK also addresses other common vision issues, including hyperopia (farsightedness) and astigmatism (blurry vision at all distances). With a typically quick recovery time and proven results, LASIK is transforming the way people experience the world, one procedure at a time.
Are You a Candidate for LASIK?
If you’re considering LASIK, there’s a good chance you may qualify—90% of people between the ages of 18 to 65 are eligible for LASIK. Ideal candidates typically include:
- Adults aged 18 or older.
- Those with a stable prescription for at least a year.
- Individuals with good overall eye health.
Since children's eyes are still developing, they are not good candidates for LASIK, as their vision may continue to change over time.
Not sure if LASIK is right for you? Take our free online candidacy quiz to get a quick answer. The next step is booking a free consultation, where our specialists will perform diagnostic tests to confirm your eligibility. We offer both in-person and virtual consultations to fit your lifestyle.
Even if LASIK isn’t the best option for you, we specialize in a range of vision correction procedures, so our team can help find a solution tailored to your needs.
Why Choose LASIK MD?
When it comes to vision correction, experience and trust matter. Here’s why so many patients turn to LASIK MD:
- Extensive Experience: Our surgeons have performed over 2 million procedures.
- Convenience: With clinics across North America, quality care is never far away.
- Affordability: We offer flexible financing and a Lowest Price Guarantee.*
- Quick Recovery: Most LASIK patients return to their normal routine in 24 hours.
- Proven Results: Most patients achieve 20/20 vision or better, transforming their daily lives.
Whether you’re looking to simplify your routine, save on the long-term costs of glasses and contacts, or simply enjoy the freedom of clear vision, LASIK offers a life-changing opportunity.
Don’t let myopia hold you back. Join the millions who have transformed their vision—and their lives—with LASIK MD. Book a free consultation today.
*LASIK MD will match the price of any competitor and offer an additional rebate of $50/eye, provided they are offering equivalent service and technology.