Spotlights The Rise of Myopia on World Sight Day

Canada’s leading eyewear retailer,  Clearly celebrates World Sight Day on October 14 by raising awareness on the importance of good vision and eye health. With Myopia on the rise globally, specifically in children, Clearly aims to educate parents on early detection and intervention in an effort to help to reduce the progression of myopia.

Myopia, also known as nearsightedness or shortsightedness, is rising globally and if the current trends continue, five billion people – or half the world’s population – will suffer from myopia by 2050. The projected increases in myopia are widely considered to be driven by environmental factors, principally lifestyle changes resulting from a combination of decreased time outdoors and increased work activities and more time spent on devices.

“When detected early in children, myopia can be managed, reducing the risks of serious eye conditions later in life. Today, regular comprehensive eye exams, performed by eye care professionals, are often overlooked as a basic health check-up, which is why Clearly is educating Canadians through sessions like the brand’s upcoming World Sight Day event,” says Dr. Justin Asgarpour, Independent Optometrist and Chief Vision & Mission Officer, Clearly.

Intervening at the earliest possible time may significantly reduce the burden. Dr. Asgarpour explains it is important for parents to be proactive in detecting and managing their child’s myopia. Whether or not children show symptoms, it is important for parents and guardians to schedule routine comprehensive eye exams for their children before preschool and schedule them annually as needed. Additional ways to prevent myopia include reducing screen time and encouraging regular vision breaks in an effort to limit the duration of continuous work.

Clearly is committed to finding and developing innovative solutions that have a positive impact on the lives of the individuals and communities the company serves, which is why the brand introduced initiatives such as Free Glasses for Kids and Buy One, Give One. By providing children aged ten and under with free glasses at all Clearly store locations, and donating a pair of glasses to someone in need with each pair purchased through its Buy One, Give One program, Clearly further strengthens its passion for protecting and improving eye health for all.