A new type of eyeglass lens is providing a way to manage myopia, or nearsightedness, in children by helping them see clearly while slowing vision changes over time. As myopia rates continue to rise globally, with experts predicting that half the world's population could be nearsighted by 2050, this advancement offers a new option for pediatric eye care.
Risks of rising myopia rates
Shandi Beckwith, OD, an optometrist at the University of Utah's John A. Moran Eye Center, noted that myopia can lead to serious lifetime risks such as glaucoma, cataracts, retinal detachment, and macular degeneration. While the condition is often inherited, recent increases in cases are likely linked to more screen time, increased reading, and less time spent outdoors.
How the Stellest lens works
Previously, physicians primarily relied on contact lenses or special eye drops to slow myopia progression, which can be difficult for families to maintain. The Stellest lens provides a different approach by using over 1,000 tiny individual lenses called lenslets embedded in the glass. These lenslets focus the central vision and create a slight blur at the periphery, bringing the focal point forward so the eye does not have to strain to adjust focus.
Effectiveness in slowing vision changes
Research indicated that the Stellest lens slowed myopia progression by 71% over two years. This performance exceeded the reduction rates seen with contact lenses and eye drops, which showed reductions of 55% to 59% over three years. According to Beckwith, the lens is considered a standard of care by the World Council of Optometry.
Lens design and US availability
The Stellest lens has been used for many years internationally and was recently approved in the United States. While studied primarily in children aged 6 to 12, it has also been prescribed for older children. The lenses are designed to fit into standard frames and the lenslets are not visually obvious to others.
Tips for maintaining healthy vision
In addition to medical treatments, experts suggest healthy habits to protect vision, such as keeping screens at least 12 inches from the face, spending at least one hour outside daily, and following the 20-20-20 rule, which involves looking 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes.
