Regional difference in prevalence of myopia: genetic or environmental effects?

Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference paperChapterpeer-review

Abstract

It is well accepted that a myopia epidemic is occurring globally, with 50% of the global population predicted to have myopia by the year 2050. Parts of East and Southeast Asia, such as China, South Korea, and Singapore, have the most rapidly increasing rates of myopia compared to other parts of the world. The rate of rise in myopia differs between geographical locations and, even within a country, varying according to the level of urbanization of the studied region and between ethnic groups. Genetic factors are known to play a part in the myopia epidemic, with over 100 genes associated with myopia or its ocular traits already identified. Children in families where one or both parents have myopia are more likely to develop myopia. However, the epidemic is likely to be the result of environmental risk factors, such as higher levels of education, increased near work, and decreased time spent outdoors, rather than genetic factors. These environmental factors may predispose individuals who are genetically susceptible to develop myopia and may provide a target for early intervention and prevention.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationAdvances in Vision Research, Volume III
Subtitle of host publicationGenetic Eye Research around the Globe
EditorsG Prakash, T Iwata
Place of PublicationSingapore
PublisherSpringer
Chapter25
Pages365–379
Edition1st
ISBN (Electronic)978-981-15-9184-6
ISBN (Print)978-981-15-9183-9
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2021

Publication series

NameEssentials in Ophthalmology
PublisherSpringer

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