Myopia: a genetic or environmentally induced problem? (C-100645)
12 June 2020
Volume 21, Issue 2
This article outlines the evidence used to demonstrate the complex aetiology of myopia development and discusses how the supposed opposing influences of genetic factors and environmental influences can be used to further our understanding of myopia.
Domains covered
Communication
Clinical practice
The predicted upward trajectory in global myopia prevalence has sparked much interest and research investigating the causal mechanisms behind its development. Evidence of both genetic and environmental causes has been put forward, and this article aims to explore some of this evidence and how these two theories can be reconciled to explain the complex aetiology of myopia. As eye care professionals are ideally placed to offer lifestyle advice and optical interventions for reducing a child’s risk of myopia development and/ or progression, this article provides clinicians with a summary of what puts a child at risk of myopia, to help inform monitoring and intervention strategies.
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