Shift the focus to tackle myopia in Singapore

It may be irreversible, but the battle with short-sightedness needs to be contained, if not won.

- Goh Jit Khong Jake and Foo Li Lian

Ten-year-old Ethan suddenly developed myopia, and it quickly got worse. But where once children like Ethan had to rely on increasingly stronger lenses, his vision was stabilised with the use of myopia-control spectacle lenses. Sarah, a 12-year-old dancer, switched to Ortho-K (orthokeratology) lenses, gaining freedom from glasses and excelling in performances.

These cases highlight the importance of early intervention and regular follow-ups in myopia and in the wider picture, how a whole-of-society approach is needed. While myopia, or short-sightedness, is irreversible, its trajectory can be managed.

Ortho-K lenses, for example, reshape the cornea overnight to provide clear vision during the day, while slowing myopia progression. Control spectacle lenses focus peripheral light rays in front of the retina to slow the eye moving from its normal round shape to being too long or oval.

Sure, conventional corrective glasses and contact lenses help the short-sighted, but parents may not be up with latest developments, or they may be complacent and think that when the child is older, they can simply have Lasik surgery. There are environmental factors at play too - the need for outdoor play and screen breaks. These involve education and policy decisions.

Myopia is a public health crisis with long-term economic and social implications. It increases the risk of severe complications later in life such as retinal detachment, glaucoma and macular degeneration. These can lead to visual impairment and significantly reduce quality of life.

Addressing it requires systemic changes that go beyond individual responsibility. This involves rethinking school policies, creating urban spaces that encourage outdoor activity, and adopting hard measures to reduce screen time.

The focus must shift from prevention to containment, emphasising early intervention, consistent follow-ups and comprehensive public education.