Increasing rates of myopia: The long view

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review examines the trend toward greater rates of myopia, as well as possible reasons for this increased rate. It broaches some questions about how these increased rates will affect our society, as well as our practice of ophthalmology. RECENT FINDINGS: Multiple studies, as well as national and international government statistics, have found an increase in the prevalence of myopia. Other authors have been looking into causes and influences of myopia in clinical, observational, and molecular studies. SUMMARY: The rate of myopia is increasing in our society. There are various plausible theories as to the cause of the increase in myopia. This trend will likely affect our practice as ophthalmologists, and will probably increase the number of patients seeking refractive surgery.