That’s a wrap! Optometry Australia zooms in on myopia epidemic

During the segment (clip starts at 5:46), Luke Arundel, Chief Clinical Officer of Optometry Australia, emphasised the need for early detection, especially among children. 

‘Kids often don’t know they have a vision problem because they just assume that everyone sees the world the same way that they do,’ he explained.  

‘Many don’t realise that the world isn’t supposed to be a blurry place, so it’s really important for kids to be getting a check before school and then regularly as they progress through school years so that we can detect myopia and manage this condition.’ 

The House of Wellness feature delved into the various causes and consequences of undiagnosed myopia, providing viewers with a comprehensive understanding of the widespread eye condition. Mr Arundel pointed out how lifestyle factors, such as increased near work and reduced time outside can contribute to the rising prevalence of myopia among younger people and highlighted recent advances in myopia management 

‘It’s important for parents to understand that if their kids have been diagnosed with myopia, optometrists now have a range of techniques and treatments to slow its progression.’  

This collaboration with Channel 7’s House of Wellness marks another significant step in Optometry Australia’s ongoing efforts to raise more awareness about myopia, promote eye health and reiterate the importance of regular visits to the optometrist.  

‘Myopia is a looming epidemic; we are talking about half the world’s population being short-sighted by the year 2050. One fifth of the world’s population will have high myopia and with high myopia comes increased risk of permanent blindness.’ 

Mr Arundel reaffirmed, ‘Optometry Australia will continue to educate parents, caregivers and teachers on the rising prevalence of myopia and the need for early detection and management of this condition.

‘Optometry Australia has identified myopia as an important area to focus on for advocacy and continued optometrist education. We are also currently working with industry partners on a large, brand agnostic myopia awareness to be launched in 2025. This month we will be releasing our updated myopia Standard of Care Position Statement and our newly formed Myopia Medicare Working group will be assisting us on a submission to Government for a new Medicare item to ensure that optometrists receive appropriate renumeration for myopia management.’