Myopia cases surge: Predictions indicate 50% global population will be nearsighted by 2050

The alarming increase in the number of people affected by myopia worldwide is becoming a major health concern. According to data from the World Health Organization, by 2050, approximately 50% of the world’s population will be affected by myopia.

Romania follows world trends, with an upward trend on  the number of people suffering from this condition that starts at an ever-younger age. Data from Infosan, the only private ophthalmopediatrics hospital in Romania, show that last year the number of myopia cases was 4% higher than in 2022. At the same time, 68% of the cases identified by Infosan specialists were among children aged up to 16 years old.

“The increasing number of cases of myopia is becoming a major public health problem with significant social and economic effects. Unfortunately, there is no national strategy for prevention and treatment, and in general, those with vision problems reach consultations when their conditionis in an advanced state. It is essential to pay more attention to the prevention and management of this disease and to implement effective measures to reverse the trend of increasing cases”, stated Dr. Andreea Ciubotaru, Medical Director of Infosan Ophthalmopediatric Hospital and Vice-President of the Romanian Strabology and Ophthalmology Society.

Visual impairments represent an enormous global financial burden, with an estimated annual loss of productivity of approximately $411 billion, according to 2022 data from the World Health Organization.

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The figure far exceeds the cost gap for treating vision problems estimated at around $25 billion, according to WHO.

Myopia significantly affects quality of life, but also academic performance, and work productivity. Prolonged use and exposure to electronic devices, especially mobile phones, tablets, and television contribute to the development of myopia. In addition, another factor that favors the appearance of this disease is the lack of spending time outside in natural light.

“It is essential to identify vision problems in time and we strongly recommend a visit to a complete ophthalmological check-up at least once a year. Especially in the case of children, where it is extremely important to prevent and treat vision problems in time. It is important for parents to be aware of the risks associated with excessive use of electronic devices by children and to encourage outdoor activities and a healthy balance between screen time and time spent in nature”, said Dr. Andreea Ciubotaru.

Infosan offers diagnostic, treatment, and care services for a wide range of ophthalmological conditions in children and adults.