Survey reveals parents “lack accurate information about myopia”

A new survey commissioned by Essilor has revealed gaps in the understanding that parents have around myopia in children.

Essilor highlighted its efforts to raise awareness of myopia management, including a special event for families on 29 November to engage children in a memorable learning experience about the importance of eye health.

The Ipsos survey of 1000 UK adults found that 94% of parents of myopic children believe that wearing glasses or contact lenses will solve the problem.

Half of parents surveyed, including those without myopic children, were unaware that the earlier myopia starts, the faster it can progress.

Charlotte Timbury, dispensing optician and director of medical and professional affairs for EssilorLuxottica North Europe, said: “It’s evident that many parents and even those whose children are myopic, lack accurate information about myopia.”

The research found that 48% of parents were aware that people who are very short-sighted have an increased risk of sight-threatening eye complications.

Almost two thirds of all parents (61%) admitted they found it increasingly difficult to know what to do to ensure their child is, and remains, in good health.

The research indicated a short-term view of myopia management amongst parents, with a focus on addressing the immediate problem and overlooking the importance of follow-ups.

The survey suggested that, after correction, 69% of parents of myopic children no longer really worried about their child’s sight.

Of those with myopic children, 79% of parents believed their child’s myopia is likely to improve, while more than two thirds of parents think their child’s myopia will probably disappear in the next few years.

A third of parents surveyed were not aware that habits such as taking breaks between focusing on close objects for long periods and spending time outdoors could be beneficial in slowing the onset of myopia. Of all the parents surveyed, 56% did not know that a lack of exposure to natural light was a factor associated with myopia.

Meanwhile, 76% had not heard about spectacle lenses designed to slow the progression of myopia.

Timbury highlighted that the company is working to help spread awareness among parents of the role of lifestyle changes and myopia management options available.

Essilor is working with Mumsnet.com to host an ‘ask the expert’ Q&A on myopia and eye health.

The company also ran a ‘class of myopia’ event for families on 29 November at its Kensington showroom. During the event, children were taken on an interactive space adventure to “learn about the importance of clear vision and fight the myopia epidemic.”

Essilor also delivered its new educational programme, Eyestar Mission, during the event, where children were able to follow the adventures of space characters, Charlie, Skyler, and Eyo.

Timbury explained: “Eyestar Mission empowers children and parents to take ownership of their eye health.”

The event featured short videos and activities along with key learnings, while children also earned badges through the sessions.

Earlier this year, Essilor launched a multi-channel media campaign across YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Amazon Prime, and Disney+ to help spread awareness about myopia management.