Understanding myopia in children: key causes, symptoms, and prevention

MYOPIA, or short-sightedness, is rising rapidly across the globe.

- TRACY-LYNN RUITERS

It currently affects up to a third of the world's population and could reach 50% by 2050 due to urban life-styles, high screen time, and reduced outdoor activity.

"Poor vision has a tremendous negative impact on a child's ability to learn," said Dr Helga Abrahamse-Pillay, president of the South African Society for Paediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus (SASPOS).

"A child struggling to see the board, follow sports, or recognise people from a distance may fall behind education-ally, socially and behaviourally."