Clinical Report: Myopia’s Long Reach in Japan
Overview
An analysis of over 4.5 million spectacle wearers in Japan reveals that myopia progresses earlier and continues later than previously assumed. The study indicates significant refractive changes during childhood.
Background
Myopia is a growing public health concern, particularly in countries like Japan where prevalence rates are high among children. Understanding the progression of myopia is crucial for implementing effective management strategies to prevent long-term ocular complications.
Data Highlights
| Age | Median SE (Men) | Median SE (Women) | High Myopia Prevalence |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | - | - | 30% |
| 10 | - | - | 1.3% |
| 30 | -3.3 D | -3.5 D | - |
Key Findings
- Median spherical equivalent (SE) stabilized at approximately -3.3 D for men and -3.5 D for women by age 30.
- High myopia was present in 1.3% of spectacle-wearing children under 10 years.
- The fastest median myopic progression occurred at age seven, reaching approximately -1.1 D per year.
- Progression generally slowed to less than -0.3 D annually by age 20.
- Regional and sex-related differences in myopia patterns were observed.
Clinical Implications
Clinicians should be aware that myopia can progress beyond the previously assumed stabilization age of 18-21 years.
Conclusion
This comprehensive analysis highlights the need for monitoring myopia progression throughout childhood and into young adulthood.
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- FDA Authorizes Marketing of First Eyeglass Lenses to Slow Progression of Pediatric Myopia
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- NDA 219694 Page 3 the United States. Notably, s
- Low-Concentration Atropine (0.01%, 0.025%, 0.05%) for Myopia Progression in Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis - PMC
- Multifocal Soft Contact Lenses for the Treatment of Myopia Progression in Children: A Report by the American Academy of Ophthalmology - PubMed
- Distribution and Time Trends of Refractive Errors in Japanese Spectacle Wearers - PMC
- Annual Trend of Myopia and High Myopia in Children in Japan: A Nationwide Claims Database Study - PMC
- IMI—2025 Digest - PMC
Based on findings from:
Myopia’s Long Reach in Japan
The Ophthalmologist, 2026.
https://theophthalmologist.com/issues/2026/articles/september/myopias-long-reach-in-japan/
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