Over the year we have published a major series looking at the various methods that have been used to intervene in myopia in attempt to slow its progression. Myopia is an ocular condition with increasing prevalence and, in some regions of the world, has almost full penetrance. Uncorrected, as is often the case in developing countries, vision is significantly affected. Furthermore, myopia increases the risk and severity of a whole gamut of ocular diseases which, if eye care is not attainable, lead to blindness.

Predicted impact for myopia is sobering and so it is no wonder that researchers have been looking at the various methods of slowing axial length growth. Effectiveness is variable and there is unlikely to be any single ‘cure’ in the near future and likely in the distant future only through major advances in genetic interventions. The four main articles that are to be the source material for this exercise covered the following topics. 

  • Part 1 – Professor Des Fonn offered an overview of myopia and its increased prevalence throughout the world
  • Part 2 and Part 3 – Dr Kathy Dumbleton took a closer look at the research base for myopia control and offered advice on how to best interpret results and decide upon the significance of findings
  • Part 4 – Professor Mark Bullimore offered useful instruction on the fitting of young children with contact lenses

We then published three practitioner experiences, each describing their approach to myopia control in practice and focusing in particular on aspects of communication with patients.

An understanding of the underlying science behind interventions and, perhaps more importantly, an up to date awareness of the extent of impact of individual interventions (both good and bad) is increasingly essential. Patients hear about ‘myopia treatments’ via other media and clinicians are starting to practice myopia therapy. It is the eye care practitioner who is best placed to explain the latest understanding of techniques and their impact. This month’s exercise is designed to encourage healthy debate about the topic.

Now answer the following six questions