What is the prevalence of High Myopia?

High Myopia, typically defined as a refractive error of -6.00 diopters or more or an axial length of 26.5 mm or greater, is a significant global health concern estimated to affect approximately 2% to 5% of the world's population. While the prevalence varies drastically by region and ethnicity, the condition is becoming increasingly common, with projections suggesting that high myopia could affect nearly 10% of the global population by 2050.

What is the global prevalence of High Myopia?

The prevalence of High Myopia is not uniform; it is highly dependent on both geography and age. According to large-scale meta-analyses published in journals such as Ophthalmology, the global prevalence is estimated at 2.8% for the year 2020, but this figure masks significant disparities. In East Asian populations, the prevalence of High Myopia is notably higher, sometimes reaching 10% to 20% in young adult cohorts, compared to significantly lower rates in European or African descent populations. Because "high myopia" is often categorized under the broader umbrella of refractive errors, many cases remain unrecorded in formal registries, making it difficult to establish exact incidence rates per year.

Is there a difference in prevalence by age or gender?

High Myopia is primarily a condition that manifests in childhood and progresses through adolescence, though it can persist into adulthood. Regarding gender distribution, studies generally show a slight female predominance in the development of High Myopia, which may be attributed to a combination of hormonal factors and behavioral differences in time spent on near-work activities. The age of onset is typically pediatric; however, the clinical significance often peaks in the third or fourth decade of life when associated ocular complications—such as myopic macular degeneration or retinal detachment—become more prevalent.

What are the challenges in tracking High Myopia data?

Accurately measuring the prevalence of High Myopia is hindered by several factors:

• Diagnostic Thresholds: Different clinical studies use varying definitions (e.g., -6.00D vs. -8.00D), leading to inconsistent data.


• Underdiagnosis: In many parts of the world, access to comprehensive eye exams is limited, meaning many individuals with severe refractive errors are never formally diagnosed.


• Classification: High myopia is often viewed as a "common" refractive error rather than a medical condition, meaning it is frequently excluded from rare disease registries despite the severe associated risks.

How does the DiseaseMaps community compare to clinical data?

While large-scale epidemiological studies provide the "big picture," the DiseaseMaps.org community offers a vital, real-world perspective on living with the condition. Currently, 78 people with High Myopia have joined our community to share their experiences. This patient-led data highlights the daily challenges and the long-term emotional impact of managing High Myopia, which are often overlooked in traditional clinical literature. By connecting with others, patients can better understand the spectrum of the condition beyond just diopter measurements.

Next steps

• Schedule a comprehensive dilated eye exam with an ophthalmologist to monitor retinal health.


• Discuss myopia management strategies, such as orthokeratology or low-dose atropine, with your eye care provider if you are in the early stages of progression.


• Join the DiseaseMaps.org community to share your journey and connect with others navigating the complexities of High Myopia.


• Maintain regular follow-ups to screen for early signs of myopic maculopathy or retinal thinning.

Medical disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice; please consult a qualified ophthalmologist or retinal specialist for personalized clinical guidance.

References

• Holden BA, et al. "Global Prevalence of Myopia and High Myopia and Temporal Trends from 2000 through 2050." Ophthalmology.


• NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD) - Myopia resources.


• Orphanet: International reference portal for information on rare diseases and orphan drugs.


• OMIM (Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man): High Myopia genetic locus documentation.