Why is time outside protective against myopia? A review of the evidence (C-101625)

CPD
1
25 March 2022
Volume 23, Issue 1

This article reviews the evidence for the protective effect of daylight on myopia.

Domains covered

Professionalism Clinical practice

The prevalence of myopia has risen rapidly in recent decades and is largely attributable to our changing lifestyles. Early visual experiences can affect the axial growth of the eye but just how this occurs is not clearly understood. In this review, we discuss the evidence which supports the protective effect of time outside on myopia and why it is likely that exposure to natural daylight is responsible. We compare how artificial indoor lighting differs from daylight in brightness, colour spectrum and flicker, and how these factors influence growth of the eye. We discuss why periods of home confinement during the COVID-19 pandemic have led to further increases in the prevalence of myopia among young children, and how optometrists should advise people seeking to delay the onset or slow down the progression of myopia in their children.

Sign in to continue

Forgotten password?
Register

Sign in to view the article

Not a member? Start enjoying the benefits of College membership today. Take a look at what the College can offer you and view our membership categories and rates.

Related further reading

This year's National Eye Health Week will take place from 18 to 24 September 2023, promoting the importance of good eye health and the need for regular sight tests for all.

This in-person peer review in Belfast is free of charge for College membersĀ and will cover your peer review CPD requirement, offering 3 CPD points.

A message from Leon Davies, College President