Myopia in Asian Children: Causes, Risks, and Prevention

Myopia in Asian Children: Causes, Risks, and Prevention

Myopia, or nearsightedness, has become an increasing concern for parents worldwide — especially for Asian children. Studies consistently show that myopia rates among Asian children are higher than other ethnic groups. But why is this happening, and what can parents do to help?

This guide by NextPair — your trusted eyewear brand built for Asian fit — will explain everything you need to know about myopia in Asian children, from causes and risk factors to prevention strategies and eyewear solutions.

What is Myopia?

Myopia is a common vision condition where distant objects appear blurry, while close-up objects are clear. It happens when the eyeball grows too long or the cornea curves too much, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it.

Why is Myopia More Common in Asian Children?

Research shows that over 80% of school-aged children in parts of East Asia (China, Singapore, Korea) are myopic. Asian children in North America and Europe are also at higher risk compared to their non-Asian peers.

Factors include:

• Genetics: If one or both parents have myopia, their child is more likely to develop it.

• Lifestyle Habits: Long hours of near-work (like reading or screens) and not enough outdoor time accelerate myopia.

• Urban Living: Children in urban settings tend to have higher rates of myopia than those in rural areas.

• Eye Structure: Asian eye anatomy can also influence how light focuses in the eye, increasing susceptibility.

Why Parents Should Take Myopia Seriously 😟

Without intervention, myopia can rapidly worsen in children, leading to high myopia (over -6.00 diopters), which increases the risk of:

• Retinal detachment

• Glaucoma

• Cataracts

• Vision loss later in life

Early detection is key to slowing down progression.

Signs Your Child Might Have Myopia 👓

• Squinting to see distant objects

• Sitting very close to the TV or computer

• Complaints of headaches or eye strain

• Difficulty seeing the whiteboard in school

• Frequent blinking or rubbing eyes

When Should Asian Children Get an Eye Exam?

NextPair recommends:

• First eye exam: Age 6 months

• Follow-up: Age 3 years

• Before school starts: Age 5-6 years

• Yearly check-ups: Especially if myopia runs in the family

If your child is already showing symptoms, book an appointment immediately.

Prevention Tips for Parents of Asian Children 🌞

1. Increase Outdoor Time

   • Studies show 2 hours daily outdoors can significantly reduce the risk of myopia onset.

2. Limit Screen Time

   • Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

3. Proper Lighting

   • Ensure reading and study areas are well-lit.

4. Correct Reading Posture

   • Keep reading material at least 30-40cm away from the eyes.

Myopia Control Options for Asian Children

Depending on your child’s prescription and age, here are some popular options:

1. Specialty Myopia Control Lenses

• Essilor Stellest or Hoya MiYOSMART lenses.

• Available at optical shops and sometimes online.

2. Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)

• Overnight contact lenses that reshape the cornea.

3. Atropine Eye Drops

• Low-dose drops that slow eye growth (prescribed by optometrists).

4. Regular Prescription Glasses

• Thin, lightweight lenses for strong prescriptions, especially important for Asian fit eyewear to avoid discomfort.

Choosing Glasses for Asian Children with Myopia 🕶️

Finding comfortable eyewear for Asian kids can be tricky due to:

• Low nose bridges

• Flatter facial profiles

• Narrower head widths

That’s why NextPair specializes in Asian fit eyewear, even for kids!

Look for:

• Adjustable nose pads

• Lightweight materials

• High-index lenses for thinner edges

• Anti-reflective coating (AR coating) for less eye strain

• UV protection

Why High-Index Lenses Matter for Asian Kids with Myopia

The stronger your child’s prescription, the thicker the lenses. Thin and light high-index lenses help:

• Reduce weight

• Improve appearance

• Increase comfort with Asian fit frames

Ask your optician about 1.67 index or 1.74 index lenses for higher prescriptions.

What About Contact Lenses for Kids?

Contact lenses are an option for older children or teens but require responsible handling. Ortho-K is often recommended for nighttime wear, so your child has clear vision during the day without lenses.

Can I Buy Myopia Control Glasses Online?

Absolutely! Many online providers now offer glasses for myopia management. NextPair offers:

• Asian fit kids glasses

• ThinFit lenses for strong prescriptions

• Anti-blue light protection

• Free shipping & 30-day try-on guarantee 🚚

Final Takeaway 💛

Myopia in Asian children is common — but manageable. Early detection, proper eyewear, and lifestyle changes can make a huge difference. Regular eye exams and high-quality Asian fit glasses are the first steps to protecting your child’s vision.

Featured in this article - Myopia control lenses, Frames for young children