Myopia is seen as a long-term eye health concern, not just a need for spectacles. Regional studies show prevalence rising with age, and earlier onset brings greater risks later in life. This article explores why early detection, local data and coordinated care matter for children.
A child who can no longer see the classroom board will usually receive spectacles. Clear vision is restored, but the more important question is often left unanswered: how quickly is the myopia progressing, and where might it lead?
Myopia is no longer viewed only as a refractive error. Higher levels are associated with greater lifetime risks of myopic maculopathy, retinal detachment and glaucoma. Globally, myopia was estimated to affect 22.9% of the population in 2000 and is projected to reach 49.8% by 2050. High myopia could rise from 2.7% to 9.8% over the same period (Holden et al., 2016). These global projections cannot simply be applied to the Middle East, but regional evidence already shows that the challenge is real.
The regional numbers deserve attention
In Taif, Saudi Arabia, a study of 3,678 schoolchildren aged 7 to 18 reported myopia in 33.2% of examined eyes. The proportion increased markedly with age, from 26.8% among children aged 7 to 9 to 43.8% among those aged 16 to 18 (AlThomali et al., 2022). Because the study reported results by eye and used non-cycloplegic refraction, the figures should not be extrapolated to all Saudi children. Nevertheless, the age gradient is a strong warning signal.
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In Jordan, a 2024 study of 542 children from three schools in Amman found myopia in 11% of the sample using cycloplegic refraction. Prevalence was 8% among six-year-olds and 18% among 15-year-olds (Gammoh and Moore, 2024). These cross-sectional results do not measure individual progression and are not national estimates, but they again show a substantially higher prevalence in older pupils.
Across Africa, a systematic review and meta-analysis covering 42 studies from 19 countries and more than 737,000 children found that childhood myopia prevalence in studies conducted from 2011 to 2021 was approximately double that reported in studies from 2000 to 2010 (Kobia-Acquah et al., 2022). The populations and methodologies differ, yet the direction is clear: the region is not untouched, and stronger comparable data are urgently needed.
Earlier onset means greater lifetime exposure
Age at onset matters because younger children potentially have more years in which myopia can progress. In a prospective study of 928 myopic children, younger age at onset was the strongest predictor of high myopia later in childhood (Chua et al., 2016). An initial diagnosis should therefore begin a monitoring pathway, not end with a prescription.
Every diopter also matters. Bullimore and colleagues reported that each additional diopter of myopia is associated with higher risks of myopic maculopathy, retinal detachment, open-angle glaucoma and posterior subcapsular cataract (Bullimore et al., 2021). The objective is not to alarm families, but to explain why reducing the final level of myopia may have long-term value.
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From correction to coordinated management
Myopia correction restores clear distance vision. Myopia management is broader: it includes risk assessment, appropriate correction, lifestyle guidance, evidence-based interventions to slow progression, and continued monitoring. Recent consensus terminology also highlights the importance of distinguishing correction, control and comprehensive management (Flitcroft et al., 2025). Options may include specially designed spectacle lenses, certain contact lenses or low-dose atropine, depending on the child, local regulation, professional scope and access to care.
Regional pathways will not be identical. However, every child needs a clear next step: comprehensive examination, explanation in language the family understands, an agreed review interval and referral when required. Where available, axial-length measurement can complement refraction, but consistent monitoring remains essential even when it is unavailable.
Lifestyle advice should also be practical. Outdoor time is associated with a lower risk of myopia onset, although it does not reverse established myopia or replace clinical care. In the Gulf, recommendations must reflect heat, school schedules and access to safe outdoor spaces. Sustainable routines are more useful than unrealistic targets.
Readiness means acting before the crisis grows
The Middle East does not need to wait for prevalence to reach the highest levels seen elsewhere. The evidence already supports earlier detection, clearer parent education, reliable follow-up and stronger local research. Schools, pediatricians, optometrists and ophthalmologists all have complementary roles, within each country’s regulations.
Readiness will not be measured by the number of spectacles prescribed. It will be measured by whether children are identified early, followed consistently and offered appropriate care as their needs change. The region has begun that journey. The priority now is to ensure that progress reaches every child and every community.
