Episode
The Myopia Epidemic Is Getting Worse (and how to stop it)
- Podcast
- Doctor Eye Health Podcast
- Published
- Mar 18, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 3421
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Summary
Myopia is rising fast and the global myopia epidemic is becoming a serious public health concern. In some regions, nearly 90% of the population is now myopic, with rates of myopia in children increasing every year. But myopia isn’t just about needing glasses earlier in life. Progressive myopia significantly increases the risk of serious and potentially blinding eye diseases like retinal detachment, glaucoma, cataracts, and myopic maculopathy, making myopia prevention and myopia control more important than ever. On the Dr. Eye Health Podcast, Dr. Joseph Allen is joined by pediatric ophthalmologist Dr. Rupa Wong to unpack the global myopia epidemic. Together they explore why myopia is increasing, the lifestyle factors driving it, and the science-backed strategies that can slow its progression in children. From low-dose atropine drops to special myopia-control glasses and contact lenses, this conversation breaks down what parents, patients, and eye care professionals need to know about protecting long-term vision. In This Episode You Will Learn ✅ Why myopia is increasing rapidly around the world ✅ The serious long-term eye disease risks associated with high myopia ✅ How lifestyle habits like screen time and indoor living affect children’s vision ✅ Evidence-based treatments that can slow or prevent myopia progression ✅ Why outdoor time may be one of the most powerful prevention tools 👉 If you enjoy evidence-based eye health education from real doctors and researchers, follow the Dr. Eye Health Podcast so you never miss an episode. Timestamps 00:00 The growing global myopia epidemic 03:50 Why nearsightedness is more than just needing glasses 08:00 The long-term risks of high myopia and eye disease 13:40 Why children today are becoming nearsighted earlier 17:00 Signs a child…