From the Research
Myopia, or nearsightedness, represents a significant global health burden affecting approximately 2.6 billion people worldwide, with projections suggesting this number could rise to 5 billion (about half the world's population) by 2050, as reported in the most recent study 1.
Global Burden of Myopia
The global prevalence of myopia is expected to increase, with a disproportionately greater increase in the prevalence of high myopia, leading to a forecasted future increase in vision loss due to uncorrected myopia and high myopia-related complications such as myopic macular degeneration 1.
- The principal trends are a rising prevalence of myopia and high myopia, with a significant impact on individuals and society.
- The current global cost estimates related to direct health expenditure and lost productivity are in the billions, with health expenditure being greater in adults, reflecting the added costs due to myopia-related complications 1.
Burden of Myopia in India
In India specifically, myopia affects about 28-40% of the population, with higher prevalence in urban areas (30-40%) compared to rural regions (15-20%), as shown in a meta-analysis of studies from the last four decades 2.
- The condition is particularly concerning among Indian children and young adults, with studies showing prevalence rates of 5-8% in rural children and 10-15% in urban children, increasing dramatically during school years.
- The rising prevalence in India is particularly concerning due to limited access to eye care services in many regions, creating a significant public health challenge that requires comprehensive strategies for prevention, early detection, and management.
Economic Impact and Quality of Life
The economic impact of myopia is substantial, with direct costs for corrective lenses, surgeries, and medical consultations estimated in billions globally, while indirect costs include reduced productivity and quality of life 1.
- Uncorrected myopia remains the leading cause of visual impairment worldwide, with higher degrees of myopia increasing the risk of serious complications like retinal detachment, glaucoma, cataracts, and myopic macular degeneration.
- Quality of life is affected for those with uncorrected myopia, high myopia, or complications of high myopia, highlighting the need for effective prevention and management strategies.