Myopia, commonly referred to as nearsightedness, causes distance vision to be blurry. Myopia typically occurs during childhood when eyeballs are growing, meaning the distance between the front and back of the eye is lengthening.  As this happens, blurry vision results due to the light rays focusing at a point in front of the retina.

Myopia is a growing concern globally and childhood myopia, specifically, is on the rise.  In 1970, only 25% of the population was nearsighted, today more than 40% of Americans are myopic. And, it’s estimated that by 2050, 58% of Americans will be nearsighted!  Myopia tends to progress during childhood as the eyes continue to grow and develop. Study after study demonstrates that myopia is worsening more rapidly in school-aged children now than ever before.