Myopia is the ability to view objects up-close, but difficulty viewing objects in the distance. It occurs when the eye is slightly longer than normal, or the cornea is too steeply curved, so light focuses in front of the retina instead of on it.
According to the National Eye Institute, myopia in the United States rose from 25% of the population in 1971 to 41.6% in 2004 — a trend mirrored around the world. Myopia is corrected with minus (concave) lenses that move the focal point back onto the retina.
Key facts
- US myopia prevalence rose from 25% (1971) to 41.6% (2004) — NEI.
- Distant objects appear blurred while near vision stays clear.
- Corrected with minus (concave) lenses.
- Often begins in school-age children and can progress with age.
