By 2050, the direct cost of myopia is projected to be $870 billion globally
The WHO has spotlighted the urgency of global policy review to ensure the needs of children with myopia are met with the launch of the SPECS 2030 initiative, aiming to tackle the main causes of vision impairment through developing advocacy, raising awareness, and strengthening refractive error services.8 This includes prioritizing regular eye screenings, increasing education about preventative measures and solutions available, and improving understanding and awareness of myopia symptoms, signs and risk factors.
Innovation is critical to closing the vision care gap
Technological innovations such as HOYA Vision Care’s leading myopia control MiYOSMART* spectacle lenses can slow the progression of myopia in addition to correcting vision, lessening the impact of myopia on children.9 At clinical trial, MiYOSMART slowed myopia progression by 52% and eye elongation by 62% on average, sustained over time10 – even completely halting progression in some children.9,11
Griff Altmann, Chief Technology Officer of HOYA Vision Care, expressed that: “HOYA has continued to innovate by developing the world’s first photochromic myopia control spectacle lens and myopia control polarized sunglass lens. Expanding our innovative technologies, we are working to increase the range of powers offered to help a wider range of patients, and on next-generation spectacle lenses with even greater effectiveness. To even further enhance effectiveness and meet each patient’s lifestyle needs, we are also investigating combined systems of myopia control, such as MiYOSMART in combination with atropine.”
Developing these innovations only partially contributes to better outcomes for children with myopia; their needs must be met as soon as possible. “The risk of developing high myopia can be addressed when the child is pre-myopic,” explained Altmann. “If the natural amount of hyperopic refractive error in a child’s eye is less than it should be at a young age and if they have a family history of myopia, that child is at risk of developing progressive high myopia. HOYA is investigating treating these at-risk children before myopia sets in.”
At HOYA Vision Care, we are committed to overcoming this problem through innovation and collaboration – for improved awareness and understanding, access to vision care, and global prioritization of vision-forward health policies. By working together, we can allow children to lead fuller and more inclusive lives, ensuring a vision-forward future for all.