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Learn about Myopia (Nearsightedness)
What is nearsightedness?
Nearsightedness is a type of vision condition in which near objects appear clear, but objects farther away look blurry. (1)
Myopia is a refractive error that causes blurry distance vision. (2)
Nearsightedness is also known as myopia. (1)
Why does nearsightedness occur?
Nearsightedness occurs when the shape of the eye – or the shape of certain parts of the eye – causes light rays to bend (refract) inaccurately. (1) The eye is too long. (1)
Myopia occurs when the eye focuses light rays IN FRONT of the retina, instead of ON the retina. (2)
Light rays that should be focused on nerve tissues at the back of the eye (retina) are focused in front of the retina. (1)
Is myopia common?
Myopia is the most common cause of impaired vision in people under the age of 40. (2)
In the year 2000, roughly 25% of the world’s population was myopic. (2)
Does myopia get worse?
Myopia usually beings in childhood, but it can continue to worsen into early adulthood. (2)
This is called myopia progression. (2)
Myopia can progress rapidly to become high myopia without proper management. (2)
Resources
1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/nearsightedness/symptoms-causes/syc-20375556
2. https://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/myopia.htm
