What is myopia (nearsightedness)?

Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a common type of refractive error where close objects appear clearly, but distant objects appear blurry. Myopia often progresses throughout the teenage years when the body (including the eye) is growing rapidly.  People with myopia have a higher risk of detached retina and glaucoma.

Myopia occurs when the image formed by the focusing mechanisms of the eye is “in front” of the retina. This often occurs if an eye is longer than average. A major risk factor for myopia is a family history of myopia.  Some genetic disorders, such as Marfan Syndrome, have a high association with myopia. Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is also a risk factor for development of myopia later in life.