Optometry Australia (OA) is encouraging a “significant shift” in clinical practice from merely correcting vision to using strategies that slow myopia progression.
That was one of the key recommendations outlined in its latest position statement on myopia management, which has highlighted the important role played by optometrists in addressing this global public health concern.
With the prevalence of myopia projected to affect half of the world’s population and 20 million Australians by 2050, the statement underscores the importance of evidence-based practices in mitigating and managing myopia.
“Myopia is associated with several severe ocular pathologies, including retinal detachment, maculopathy, glaucoma and cataracts,” said Mr Luke Arundel, OA’s chief clinical officer.
“Even low to moderate levels of myopia can significantly increase the risk of visual impairment later in life. The connection between myopia and these serious conditions emphasises the importance of proactive management and prevention strategies.”
Key points and recommendations for optometrists are:
- OA supports a significant shift in clinical practice from merely correcting vision to employing strategies that slow myopia progression.
“This approach includes educating patients on ways to mitigate the development of myopia and discussing evidence-based management options,” Arundel said.
“By focusing on slowing myopia progression, optometrists can help reduce the risk of sight-threatening complications of myopia.”
- OA strongly encourages practitioners to provide regular comprehensive eye health and vision examinations to identify patients with myopia, at risk of myopia development, or with myopia-associated ocular pathology.
“These examinations should encompass the measurement of refractive error, and ocular biometry whenever feasible, and include dilated fundus examination where appropriate. A thorough examination ensures a detailed understanding of the patient’s eye health, allowing for the early detection and management of potential issues.”
- In addition to comprehensive examinations, optometrists should also focus on assessing myopia risk and offering preventive counselling.
“This involves evaluating factors that may increase the likelihood of developing myopia and advising patients and their caregivers on strategies to delay myopia onset. Preventive counselling is crucial for mitigating the long-term impact of myopia.”
- Upon diagnosing myopia in children, it is imperative that optometrists offer treatment options grounded in the latest research.
“Treatments should aim to manage the progression of myopia effectively. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor myopia progression and adjust the treatment plan as necessary, ensuring optimal care and outcomes.”
- OA’s position statement aims to equip optometrists with the latest knowledge and practices to combat the rising myopia epidemic.
“By integrating comprehensive eye health assessments with proactive myopia management strategies, optometrists can significantly contribute to reducing the burden of myopia on individuals and the broader community.”
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