Over the last decade, eye doctors across Texas have seen a steady rise in myopia, also known as nearsightedness, among children. Many parents visiting Lifetime Eyecare Associates in The Woodlands, TX share the same concern — their child’s glasses prescription seems to change every year. So why is myopia increasing in children, and what can parents do about it?
Understanding the factors behind this growing trend can help families take steps to support their child’s vision and eye health.
What Is Myopia?
Myopia occurs when the eye grows too long from front to back, causing distant objects to appear blurry while close objects remain clear. This change in eye growth often begins in childhood and may continue through the school years. Higher levels of myopia have been associated with an increased risk of certain eye conditions later in life, including retinal detachment, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.
Regular eye exams allow an optometrist to monitor these changes and recommend appropriate care as a child’s vision develops.
The Main Causes of Childhood Myopia
While genetics contribute to childhood myopia, lifestyle changes in today’s world have played a significant role in its increasing prevalence — including here in Texas.
Increased Screen Time and Near Work
Children now spend more time focusing on close-up tasks such as reading, schoolwork, tablets, and smartphones. Extended near work can increase visual strain and has been associated with faster myopia progression. Many children spend limited time allowing their eyes to focus at a distance.
Reduced Time Outdoors
Spending time outdoors supports healthy visual development. Research suggests that children who spend more time outside may be less likely to develop myopia. Natural light exposure and distance viewing both play a role, but hot Texas weather and indoor entertainment can limit outdoor activity.
Genetics and Family History
Children with one or both parents who are nearsighted have a higher likelihood of developing myopia. While genetics cannot be changed, early and consistent eye care helps track vision changes and discuss management options when appropriate.
Early Academic Demands
Many children begin reading and using digital devices at younger ages than previous generations. When myopia starts early, it has more time to progress as the child grows.
Myopia in Kids: A Growing Concern in Texas
The increase in myopia among kids in Texas reflects a broader global trend. Parents may notice signs such as squinting, sitting close to screens, or difficulty seeing the board at school. These changes often indicate the need for a comprehensive pediatric eye exam to evaluate a child’s vision and eye health.
Managing Myopia at Lifetime Eyecare Associates
At Lifetime Eyecare Associates, our eye care team provides individualized care to support children’s visual development. We offer evidence-based myopia management options designed to help slow the progression of nearsightedness when clinically appropriate.
Myopia management options may include:
- Stellest™ lenses, specialized spectacle lenses designed to help manage myopia progression
- MiSight® contact lenses, FDA-approved soft contact lenses for children
- Ortho-K (orthokeratology), custom-fitted night lenses that temporarily reshape the cornea during sleep
- Atropine therapy, prescription eye drops that may help reduce the rate of myopia progression
- Lifestyle guidance, including recommendations for outdoor time and healthy screen habits
Each child’s needs are different, which is why treatment recommendations are based on exam findings, visual demands, and overall eye health.
Supporting Your Child’s Vision for the Future
Although childhood myopia is becoming more common, early detection and regular eye care can make a meaningful difference. If your child’s prescription seems to be changing frequently or they are having difficulty seeing at school, scheduling an eye exam is an important first step.
Contact Lifetime Eyecare Associates in The Woodlands, TX to schedule a pediatric eye exam and learn more about available myopia management options to support your child’s vision now and in the future.
