Global Prevalence of Myopia in Children
Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is increasingly recognized as a significant global health issue, particularly among children.
The condition is characterized by the eye’s inability to focus light directly on the retina, causing distant objects to appear blurred. Recent studies highlight a notable rise in the prevalence of myopia worldwide, attributed to both genetic and environmental factors. Environmental influences such as reduced outdoor activities, increased screen time, and early academic pressures are significant contributors to this trend [2][4][5][7][9].
MiSight® 1 Day Contact Lenses as a Pioneering Solution
In response to the escalating incidence of myopia, MiSight® 1 Day contact lenses have been developed as an innovative intervention. These lenses are specifically designed to control the progression of myopia in children. Clinical trials and meta-analyses have demonstrated the efficacy of MiSight® 1 Day lenses in slowing myopia progression through the dual-focus design, which provides both clear vision and a treatment effect [1][3][6][8]. The lenses have shown to significantly slow down the elongation of the eyeball and the worsening of myopia over time compared to traditional single-vision lenses.
Scientific Principles and Advantages of MiSight® 1 Day Lenses
MiSight® 1 Day contact lenses operate on the principle of myopia control through optical defocus. The lens design incorporates concentric rings that create a relative peripheral myopic defocus, which has been suggested to slow the axial elongation of the eye—a key factor in myopia progression. This innovative approach not only corrects refractive error but also addresses the underlying progression of myopia. The advantages of using MiSight® 1 Day lenses include their ease of use as a daily disposable lens, reducing concerns about hygiene and maintenance, which are particularly pertinent in paediatric populations [1][3][6][8].
References
- [1] “A Meta-Analysis of Myopia Control with MiSight 1 Day Contact Lenses.” Semantic Scholar. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/abe0234bf7fcbe45c95bd7d57327c7bd055a9beb
- [2] “Environmental Factors and Progressive Myopia: A Global Health Problem.” Semantic Scholar. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/a3f53172e9d1f76ebdf6e64a194096f24ecf4ecc
- [3] “Low-Concentration Atropine Monotherapy vs. Combined with MiSight 1 Day Contact Lenses for Myopia Management.” PubMed. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9781043/
- [4] “Environmental Factors and Progressive Myopia: A Global Health Problem.” Semantic Scholar. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/e591f5ee01d6172b11351b7514e14ccc782b5b06
- [5] “Prospective cross-sectional study on visual health assessment in the pediatric population.” Semantic Scholar. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/f6c377bdfb19867632ca6b2853eb08cc99a68b68
- [6] “Clinical evaluation of MiSight 1 day contact lens for myopia control: Three-year milestone results.” Semantic Scholar. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/476ac1eb5d34a60a84c3a442cf3c77a69e3fb9ce
- [7] “Myopia prevalence in school-aged children in Garki District of Abuja, Nigeria.” Semantic Scholar. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/255fe04a283fc4b59aa2a012056500ae10871777
- [8] “Long-term Effect of Dual-focus Contact Lenses on Myopia Progression in Children: A 6-year Multicenter Clinical Trial.” PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35086120/
- [9] “Global Tendency and Frontiers of Research on Myopia From 1900 to 2020: A Bibliometrics Analysis.” PubMed. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8960427/
Understanding Myopia in Children
Myopia Occurrence and Mechanism
Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, happens when the eyeball stretches more than usual, making light rays converge in front of the retina instead of directly on it. This results in distant objects appearing blurry while close objects can be seen clearly [12]. The elongation of the eyeball can be influenced by both genetic and environmental factors, such as increased near work and limited outdoor activities [10][12][13].
Progression and Risks in Children
In children, myopia can progress rapidly, especially during growth spurts associated with adolescence [12]. This progression can lead to high myopia, which significantly increases the risk of developing serious ocular complications such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and myopic maculopathy [12][15]. The rapid progression in children underscores the importance of early detection and intervention to manage the condition effectively.
Control Measures and Prevention
Given the rising trend of myopia among children, effective control measures are crucial. Recent studies have focused on various interventions to slow the progression of myopia in children. These include pharmacological interventions such as low-dose atropine eye drops, which have been shown to slow myopia progression [11][17]. Optical interventions like orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses and multifocal contact lenses are also effective in controlling axial elongation, the primary factor in myopia progression [16][18][20].
Environmental strategies, such as increasing outdoor activity, have been shown to have a protective effect against the onset and progression of myopia [21][22]. Public health initiatives and educational programs that encourage outdoor activities and regulate screen time are also recommended to mitigate the onset and progression of myopia in children [14][19].
References
- [10] “Myopia progression in school children with prolonged screen time during the coronavirus disease confinement.” 2023-12-31. [NCBI](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10862027/)
- [11] “Low-Dose 0.01% Atropine Eye Drops vs Placebo for Myopia Control: A Randomized Clinical Trial.” 2023-07-13. [PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37440213/)
- [12] “Pathogenesis and Prevention of Worsening Axial Elongation in Pathological Myopia.” 2020-03-01. [NCBI](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7092688/)
- [13] “The Impact of Study-at-Home During the COVID-19 Pandemic on Myopia Progression in Chinese Children.” 2022-01-06. [NCBI](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8770940/)
- [14] “[Expert consensus on stages of public health strategies for myopia prevention and control in children and adolescents].” 2023-06-06. [PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37357195/)
- [15] “The cause(s) of myopia and the efforts that have been made to prevent it.” 2012-11-01. [PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22845416/)
- [16] “Efficacy and Safety of Different Add Power Soft Contact Lenses on Myopia Progression in Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” 2022-02-28. [PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35226916/)
- [17] “Myopia Control with Low-Dose Atropine in European Children: Six-Month Results from a Randomized, Double-Masked, Placebo-Controlled, Multicenter Study.” 2023-02-01. [NCBI](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9960354/)
- [18] “Comparison of the Effects of Orthokeratology Lens and Cyclopentolate on Myopia Progression in Children.” 2022-04-15. [Semantic Scholar](https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/05b2e2e7223e2ad8db240a3fd038b10064eeb200)
- [19] “Study on Prevention and Control Measures of Adolescent Myopia based on Myopia Health Education.” 2022-03-26. [Semantic Scholar](https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/de5e542aebbec1fab634a2385f28a7e33df1b0ea)
- [20] “Assessment of the Clinical Effectiveness of DRL Orthokeratology Lenses vs. Single-Vision Spectacles in Controlling the Progression of Myopia in Children and Teenagers: 2 Year Retrospective Study.” 2023-02-01. [NCBI](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9955086/)
- [21] “Effect of Time Outdoors and Near-viewing Time on Myopia Progression in 9- to 11-year-old Children in Chongqing.” 2022-04-12. [NCBI](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10442030/)
- [22] “Myopia progression and associated factors of refractive status in children and adolescents in Tibet and Chongqing during the COVID-19 pandemic.” 2022-10-13. [NCBI](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9619363/)
What Makes MiSight® 1 Day Unique?
Specialized Design for Myopia Control
MiSight® 1 Day contact lenses are specifically engineered to control myopia, distinguishing them from standard contact lenses. These lenses are engineered to correct nearsightedness and also slow down the progression of myopia in children. Clinical studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of MiSight® 1 Day in managing myopia over extended periods. For instance, a long-term study showed that treatment with MiSight® 1 Day lenses resulted in sustained slowing of myopia progression over a six-year period [23]. This indicates that these lenses are more than corrective devices; they are therapeutic tools aimed at addressing the underlying progression of myopia in paediatric patients.
Unique Dual-Focus Technology
MiSight® 1 Day lenses incorporate Dual-Focus Technology, which is central to their function in myopia control. This technology involves a lens design with concentric rings that provide different optical powers. One ring corrects the refractive error (myopia), while the other creates myopic defocus, which has been shown to slow the progression of myopia. This dual-focus approach is clinically proven to be effective. For example, a randomized clinical trial highlighted that children wearing MiSight® lenses showed significantly less progression in myopia and axial elongation compared to those wearing conventional single-vision lenses [25]. This technology leverages the concept of peripheral defocus, which is instrumental in controlling eye growth, thereby reducing the rate at which myopia progresses in children.
FDA Approval and Clinical Validation
The FDA approval of MiSight® 1 Day lenses underscores their safety and efficacy. The approval was based on extensive clinical trials that demonstrated these lenses’ capability to safely slow down the progression of myopia in children. The FDA’s endorsement is based on rigorous evaluation standards, ensuring that the lenses meet safety criteria and provide the intended therapeutic effects. The clinical trials leading to FDA approval have shown consistent results in terms of efficacy in myopia control, reinforcing the lenses’ role as a significant advancement in paediatric eye care [24][25].
References
- [23] “Long-term Effect of Dual-focus Contact Lenses on Myopia Progression in Children: A 6-year Multicenter Clinical Trial.” PubMed. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35086120/]
- [24] “Clinical evaluation of MiSight 1 day contact lens for myopia control: Three-year milestone results.” Semantic Scholar. [https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/476ac1eb5d34a60a84c3a442cf3c77a69e3fb9ce]
- [25] “A 3-year Randomized Clinical Trial of MiSight Lenses for Myopia Control.” PubMed. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31343513/]
The Science of MiSight® 1 Day Lenses
MiSight® 1 Day contact lenses are specifically designed to manage myopia progression in children. The technology and design of these lenses are supported by clinical research and scientific studies that demonstrate their effectiveness in controlling myopic progression through innovative lens design.
Dual-Focus Technology
MiSight® 1 Day lenses utilize Dual-Focus Technology, which is engineered to create multiple focus areas within the lens. This technology is crucial because it directly addresses the issue of eye elongation, a significant factor in the progression of myopia. The lens design includes a central focus area that ensures clear vision for the wearer, while simultaneously incorporating concentric peripheral rings. These rings are not merely for structural support but play a critical role in managing how the eye grows, particularly in the peripheral areas. The peripheral treatment zones in these lenses create myopic defocus, which has been shown to signal the eye to halt further elongation—a process critical in slowing myopic progression [26][27][28].
Design and Functionality
The central focus area of MiSight® 1 Day lenses is designed for clear and sharp vision, which is essential for daily activities, especially in a learning environment for children. Surrounding this central zone are multiple concentric peripheral rings. These rings extend the depth of focus and have been specifically engineered to manage eye growth effectively. By extending the focus, these rings help in creating a form of myopic defocus, which is beneficial in controlling myopic progression. This design is not only innovative but directly targets the underlying changes in the eye’s structure that contribute to myopia [26][27][28].
Clinical Evidence and Studies
Several clinical studies have underscored the efficacy of MiSight® 1 Day lenses in managing myopia. For instance, a study by Chamberlain et al. (2024) highlighted that children wearing MiSight® lenses exhibited significantly slower progression of myopia compared to those wearing conventional single-vision lenses. This study, along with others, provides robust evidence supporting the use of MiSight® lenses as a viable intervention for myopia control in children. The studies consistently show a reduction in the rate of myopia progression and eye elongation, which are critical to reducing the long-term risks associated with high myopia, such as retinal detachment and glaucoma [26][27][28].
References
- [26] “Low-Concentration Atropine Monotherapy vs. Combined with MiSight 1 Day Contact Lenses for Myopia Management.” PubMed Central (PMC), 2022-12-01. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9781043/]
- [27] “A Meta-Analysis of Myopia Control with MiSight 1 Day Contact Lenses.” Semantic Scholar, 2023-08-29. [https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/abe0234bf7fcbe45c95bd7d57327c7bd055a9beb]
- [28] “Long-term Effect of Dual-focus Contact Lenses on Myopia Progression in Children: A 6-year Multicenter Clinical Trial.” PubMed, 2022-01-24. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35086120/]
Benefits for Your Child
Controlled Myopia Progression
MiSight® lenses have been shown to effectively slow down the progression of myopia in children. Several clinical trials have demonstrated their efficacy in controlling myopic progression over extended periods. For instance, a 3-year randomized clinical trial highlighted that MiSight lenses significantly reduced the progression of juvenile-onset myopia compared to control lenses. The study reported a 59% reduction in myopia progression and a 52% reduction in axial elongation for the group wearing MiSight lenses [30]. Another study extended this observation over a 6-year period, confirming the sustained effectiveness of MiSight lenses in slowing down myopia progression when worn consistently from an early age [29].
Daily Comfort
MiSight® lenses are designed as daily disposables, which contributes significantly to their comfort and suitability for children’s active lifestyles. Daily disposables are advantageous because they reduce the risk of infections associated with lens wear, such as microbial keratitis, which is often linked to improper lens care or extended wear schedules. The comfort of wearing MiSight lenses is supported by studies where subjects reported high levels of comfort and satisfaction with these lenses. For example, a study assessing the comfort of various daily disposable lenses found that users reported high initial comfort scores, which were maintained throughout long periods of wear [31][32].
Visual Health
Long-term use of MiSight® lenses not only controls myopia progression but also contributes to better overall visual health outcomes. By controlling myopia progression, these lenses help in reducing the risks associated with high myopia, including retinal detachment, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. The effectiveness of MiSight lenses in providing these health benefits is supported by their ability to significantly slow down changes in axial length and spherical equivalent refraction, which are critical factors in the progression of myopia and related complications [30].
References
[29] “Long-term Effect of Dual-focus Contact Lenses on Myopia Progression in Children: A 6-year Multicenter Clinical Trial.” PubMed, 2022-01-24. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35086120/
[30] “A 3-year Randomized Clinical Trial of MiSight Lenses for Myopia Control.” PubMed, 2019-07-23. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31343513/
[31] “Long Day Wear Experience with Water Surface Daily Disposable Contact Lenses.” PubMed Central, 2022-07-01. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9292054/
[32] “Evaluation of Wear Experience with Soft Daily Disposable Lenses for Astigmatism over 16 Hours of Wear.” PubMed Central, 2022-10-01. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9624167/
How to Get Started with MiSight® 1 Day for Your Child
Schedule a Consultation with an Eye Care Professional
The initial step involves scheduling a consultation with an eye care professional who specializes in paediatric myopia control. This is crucial because myopia, or nearsightedness, is a common vision condition in children that can worsen with age. Eye care professionals who specialize in paediatric myopia control are equipped with the knowledge and tools to assess the progression of myopia and recommend appropriate interventions. The consultation is an opportunity for the optometrist to gather comprehensive information about the child’s vision and overall eye health, which is essential for determining the most suitable myopia control strategy.
Assessment of Suitability for MiSight® Lenses
During the consultation, the optometrist will assess the child’s suitability for MiSight® 1 Day contact lenses. This assessment is based on various factors, including the child’s age, the degree of myopia, the rate of myopia progression, and the overall health of the eyes. MiSight® 1 Day lenses are specifically designed for myopia control in children and have been clinically proven to slow the progression of myopia when worn regularly. The fitting process involves measuring the eye’s curvature and other parameters to ensure the lenses provide optimal comfort, vision correction, and myopia control benefits.
Parental Support in the Routine of Using and Caring for Contact Lenses
Parental support plays a vital role in the success of myopia control with MiSight® 1 Day lenses. Parents are encouraged to help their children establish a routine for using and caring for the contact lenses properly. This includes teaching children how to insert and remove lenses safely, ensuring lenses are cleaned and stored correctly, and monitoring the child’s adherence to wearing schedules prescribed by the optometrist. Proper lens care is essential to prevent eye infections and ensure the lenses remain effective in controlling myopia progression.
Final Thoughts
Addressing myopia early can significantly improve your child’s quality of life and eye health. MiSight® 1 Day lenses represent a significant advancement in controlling myopia and offer a proactive approach to managing this widespread condition.
Call to Action
If you’re concerned about your child’s nearsightedness, don’t wait. Contact a paediatric eye care specialist about MiSight® 1 Day and take the first step towards safeguarding your child’s visual future.
This Article is Medically Reviewed by Woon Pak Seong
Woon graduated as an optometrist in 1995. After working for 9 years for a chain store and an individual optometry practice, he started Vision Space in 2004 to bring the best in global practices of vision care to customers.
He believes in the principle of continuous improvement and excellence. He enjoys meeting people and encouraging them to enjoy life.
A believer in lifelong learning, Woon loves to give optical training and talks at conferences and fairs. He takes delight in reading journals, magazines and books on how to serve his customers better as well as improving the practice of optometry.
His passion is to help people see clearly, comfortably and maintain good eye health through screening for potential eye diseases.
His specialties include:
1. Solving complex vision problems to help customers see clearly.
2. Helping children slow down their shortsightedness.
3. Fitting special multifocal spectacle lenses.
A fun fact about Mr. Woon: He is a movie buff and enjoys good music and food.
Favourite Quote: “Live life to the fullest.”