Why is myopia on the rise in infants?

Myopia – often called short-sightedness – is becoming more common, and it’s showing up earlier than ever before, even in babies and toddlers.

In the past, myopia usually appeared in school-aged children or teenagers. But today, eye specialists are seeing it in infants. This matters because the earlier myopia starts, the more likely it is to progress into higher levels later on, which can affect long-term eye health.

So why is this happening, and what can parents do about it?

What Is Infant Myopia?

Myopia happens when the eye grows too long, or the front part of the eye curves too much, causing distant objects to look blurry. Glasses or contact lenses can correct vision, but the condition itself usually continues to progress as a child grows.

Infant myopia refers to short-sightedness detected in very young children, often under the age of two. While mild vision issues can be normal in babies, persistent or strong myopia at this stage suggests the eyes are developing in a way that needs closer attention.

How Common Is It?

Worldwide, the rates of myopia are rising at an astonishing pace. The World Health Organization predicts that by 2050, half of the global population will be short-sighted.

In East Asia, more than 80% of teenagers and young adults now have myopia, and although rates in the UK and Europe are lower, they are climbing quickly. Even among babies, eye specialists are reporting more cases than they did a generation ago.

Why Might Infant Myopia Be Increasing?

There isn’t a single cause – it’s likely a mix of genetics, lifestyle, and environment.

• Family history matters – If one parent has myopia, a child is two to three times more likely to develop it. If both parents are myopic, the risk is even higher.

• Less time outdoors – Studies show that natural light helps regulate healthy eye growth. Yet many modern babies spend more time indoors due to safety concerns, busy lifestyles, and urban living.

• Early screen exposure – Although infants aren’t reading or studying, many are introduced to tablets, phones, or television at a very young age. Looking at screens up close for long periods may put strain on developing eyes.

• Urban environments – Children growing up in cities, where outdoor spaces are limited, appear more likely to develop myopia than those in rural areas.

Why Early Onset Matters

The younger a child develops myopia, the more years it has to progress. High levels of myopia in adulthood can increase the risk of serious eye conditions such as:

• Retinal detachment (a medical emergency that can cause permanent vision loss)

• Glaucoma

• Cataracts

• Myopic macular degeneration (damage to the central part of the retina)

This doesn’t mean every child with early myopia will face these problems, but it does mean prevention and early care are important.

What Parents Can Do

The good news is there are practical steps parents can take to help protect their child’s eyesight:

1. Prioritise outdoor time – Even for very young children, safe time outdoors in daylight is linked to healthier eye development. Just 1–2 hours a day can make a difference.
   

2. Delay and limit screens – The World Health Organization recommends no screen time for children under 2, and only very limited use for toddlers.
   

3. Mix up visual play – Offer toys and activities at different distances, not just close-up play. Looking at objects across a room or outside a window encourages the eyes to focus at a distance.
   

4. Regular eye checks – Don’t wait until school to get your child’s eyes tested. Many opticians offer free checks for children, and early detection allows for quicker support.
   

5. Know your family history – If myopia runs in the family, it’s especially important to monitor your child’s vision. Be extra watchful if myopia runs in the family

Looking Ahead

Infant myopia is on the rise, but with awareness, small lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring, the risks can be reduced. Encouraging outdoor play, limiting screen time, and getting early eye checks are simple but powerful steps that all parents can take to reduce the risk.