The American Medical Association (AMA) has formally endorsed classifying nearsightedness, or myopia, as a disease. This policy change is intended to ensure that children and adolescents have access to treatments that can slow the progression of myopia, with insurance coverage supported by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The AMA also calls for enhanced public health education and improved vision screening for children.
This development follows a global initiative led by the American Academy of Ophthalmology, which highlighted the rising public health crisis posed by myopia. According to the National Eye Institute, the prevalence of nearsightedness in the United States has nearly doubled over the past 50 years, now affecting approximately 41.6% of the population. The World Health Organization projects that by 2050, half of the global population could be nearsighted, with up to 20% at risk of severe complications such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, cataracts, and myopic maculopathy.
Myopia is more than just a need for stronger glasses; high myopia significantly increases the risk of permanent vision loss. Research has identified several treatments that can slow myopia progression in children and teenagers. These include FDA-approved Essilor Stellest eyeglasses for ages 6 to 12, multifocal soft contact lenses for children aged 8 to 12, orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses worn overnight for children 6 and older, low-dose atropine eye drops for children 5 to 18, and behavioral changes such as spending more time outdoors.
Despite these options, awareness remains low among parents, educators, and policymakers, and insurance coverage is often lacking because myopia is not consistently recognized as a disease. Pediatric ophthalmologist Dr. Rupa Wong emphasized the need for equitable access to treatment, noting that many parents are unaware that interventions exist.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology supports expanding vision screening and early intervention through legislation like the Early Detection of Vision Impairments for Children Act (H.R. 2527), which aims to establish a national program addressing children's eye health.
These efforts seek to elevate myopia as a public health priority and prevent a generation of children from experiencing avoidable vision impairment. Parents are encouraged to consult their child’s ophthalmologist to learn about available treatment options.