Last updated on
16 October 2025
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Myopia, which is also known as nearsightedness, is a condition where nearer objects are seen more clearly than at a distance.
This is a vision problem that can be found globally. However, in some countries, there is a higher prevalence of myopia and high myopia, especially in young people, and Singapore is an example.
In Singapore, around 60% of children are myopic by age 12. Of our young adults who are myopic, 20% have high myopia – and this increases their risk for other visual problems.
High myopia is generally defined as nearsightedness of -6.00 dioptres (D) or more. It is a more severe form of nearsightedness and is caused by excessive elongation of the eyeball. Mild myopia mainly affects distant vision. In contrast, in high myopia, as there is thinning of the layers of the eye, this predisposes to other ocular conditions such as:
Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for high myopia is therefore essential for protecting long-term eye health.
The causes of high myopia are similar to those of myopia, though an earlier onset and a positive family history of high myopia can increase the risk of someone developing high myopia in the future.
Understanding the causes of high myopia can help guide preventive measures. This is especially important for families whose children are already showing early signs.
Genetics play a part in high myopia risk. Those who have at least one parent with high myopia are more likely to get the condition too.
Those who have to spend long periods on close-up tasks are more likely to develop myopia. Examples of near-work are reading or screen usage without breaks. These activities can contribute to elongation of the eyeball and speed up myopia progression.
Exposure to natural light has been associated with slower myopia progression. As such, those who spend less time outdoors may be more likely to have an accelerated progression of their myopia.
Those who develop mild myopia early on, typically before age 8, are at higher risk of becoming highly myopic in their later years.
There are several signs and symptoms of myopia. Knowing these is especially useful in detecting the condition in children, who may not articulate their symptoms well:
There is no cure for high myopia. However, there are management strategies that can help slow its progression and reduce the risk of associated complications in the future. As myopia stops progressing in adulthood, these management strategies should be applied in childhood, where the rate of progression can still be reduced.
Increasing outdoor activities to at least two hours each day can help to slow myopia progression and onset. Reduce the time spent on near work. Remember the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, you should look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
Besides vision correction, some of these glasses work via peripheral defocus and have been shown to slow down the progression of myopia. There are numerous options available and not all may be suitable or effective, you can discuss this with your doctor. For example, we use high-index lenses at ERS Suntec City to reduce thickness. This can improve comfort.
There are 2 main different types:
As an adult, there are some surgical options for myopia correction. These include Refractive Surgery like LASIK and Implantable Contact Lenses (ICL). However, these options only correct the refraction (degree) of the eye and not the inherent risk of future complications, as it does not change the length of the eyeball.
Certain imaging techniques may be used to help detect retinal or structural abnormalities early, especially ones that high myopics are at higher risk for.
Scans like the Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) are examples. The goal is to facilitate prompt intervention if a complication does arise.
As there is a risk of visual problems due to secondary complications from high myopia, regular eye screening in adulthood is recommended. The following strategies are advised:
High myopia is a serious condition that goes beyond simple nearsightedness. It can have potential lifelong effects on eye health.
While it cannot be fully reversed, being educated and proactive about it can help manage the condition.
If you want to get help with its management from a healthcare professional, book an appointment with us at ERS Suntec City. We can assess you or your child and provide recommendations from there.
