National Health Commission | Guidelines for Myopia Prevention and Control

Guidelines for Myopia Prevention and Control

In recent years, the prevalence of myopia in China has been increasing, becoming a major public health issue affecting eye health, especially among adolescents. Epidemiological studies show that pathological myopic retinopathy has become one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness in China. These guidelines are formulated to improve myopia prevention and treatment.

I. Definition, Classification, Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Criteria

(1) Definition

Myopia occurs when parallel light rays focus in front of the retina while the eye is in a relaxed state.

(2) Classification

​By refractive component:

Refractive myopia

Axial myopia

​By progression and pathological changes:

Simple myopia

Pathological myopia

​By degree:

Low myopia: -0.50D to -3.00D

Moderate myopia: -3.25D to -6.00D

High myopia: > -6.00D

(3) Clinical Manifestations and Diagnosis

Decreased distance vision, normal near vision

Confirmed by objective/subjective refraction

High myopia may be accompanied by floaters, flashes, etc.

II. Risk Factors and Prevention

(1) Environmental Factors

Prolonged near work

Insufficient outdoor activity

Poor reading posture

Inadequate lighting

(2) Genetic Factors

Parental myopia, especially high myopia, increases risk in children

III. Examinations

Visual acuity test

Slit-lamp examination

Fundus examination

Cycloplegic refraction

Axial length measurement

IV. Correction Methods

Eyeglasses

Contact lenses

Refractive surgery

V. Treatment for Pathological Myopia

Laser therapy

Anti-VEGF therapy

Surgical treatment