Common Causes of Myopia in Singapore

Myopia is a public health concern in Singapore. By the time the average Singaporean reaches the end of their teenage years, approximately 70% are afflicted with this condition. 

While the medical community does not have a definitive understanding of the exact causes of myopia, certain risk factors have been known to result in a higher possibility of becoming myopic. 

These can be narrowed down to three categories. Genetic factors, environmental factors and a mixture of both genetic and environmental factors.

Genetic factors

Generally, myopia tends to be more prevalent in some families. If either parent is myopic, the likelihood of their child being myopic increases.

Quite simply, this happens because the presence of certain genes make the eyes more susceptible to modified growth, which in turn results in myopia.

Environmental factors

There are a few environmental contributors that lead to myopia and while these have been widely discussed, here are a few main points:

The general consensus in many studies is that myopia stems from an excess of doing ‘near work’ activities. 

‘Near work’ is generally any activity that is defined as being done in relative proximity to the eyes which results in eyes straining to adjust adequately over prolonged periods of activity.

Genetic and environmental factors

Studies have long tried to understand whether genetics or environmental factors are the bigger culprits in causing myopia. 

If we consider both these factors coming together, we notice that together they perpetuate the issue of myopia. While some may be genetically predisposed to being myopic, fundamental environment issues such as prolonged studying and working in a hypercompetitive society like Singapore intensifies the likelihood of myopia at a younger age.

Solutions

While inconclusive, the vast amount of evidence present seems to suggest that ‘near work’ is the largest cause of myopia and it could contribute to its early onset and progression. As with everything else, moderation is key and to avoid any long term visual problems, it is best to practice good eye care habits, eye exercises and spending more time outdoors instead of looking down at a device or book!