NEW GLASSES CAN SLOW MYOPIA IN CHILDREN

Lens approved by the FDA shows promise in reducing nearsightedness, plus risk of glaucoma and blindness

- BY MATTHEW PERRONE

For many children, the experience of getting their first pair of glasses is an inevitable milestone, the first in a lifetime of visits to the eye doctor.

But what if those lenses could actually help preserve the child’s vision and reduce the chances for more serious eye problems in adulthood?

That’s the promise of a new type of lens approved by the Food and Drug Administration in September.

Although the technology has previously been available in Europe, Asia and other parts of the world, it’s now rolling out in the United States.

Here’s what to know about the new approach.

What is myopia?

Myopia, commonly called nearsightedness, is when people can clearly see objects at close range but struggle with distant objects, which often appear blurry or indistinct.

Studies conducted around the world have shown rising rates of myopia, which researchers have associated with increased time indoors looking at screens, books and other objects held close to the eyes.

In the U.S., 30% to 40% of children will have myopia by the time they finish high school, according to Dr. Michael Repka, a professor and pediatric ophthalmologist at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine.

Until now, doctors had few options for treating the condition.

“It was typically and simply: ‘Your child needs to wear glasses and they'll live with it,’” Repka said.