A growing epidemic of shortsightedness is threatening the vision of millions, with new estimates suggesting over 740 million children and adolescents could struggle to see distant objects by 2050. Based on a global review of data from 50 nations, myopia prevalence among people aged 5 to 19 has risen from 24% in 1990 to 36% in 2023, with Asia facing the highest rates.
The increase is linked to factors like reduced outdoor time and increased screen exposure during the COVID-19 pandemic. Researchers urge for evidence-based interventions to combat the surge in myopia among future generations.
