New research indicates that myopia is more than twice as prevalent among children in the UK now than 50 years ago. We review early warning signs that may indicate a problem.
‘Pre-school kids don’t always notice that they can’t see well, it sounds bonkers, but remember they don’t know what everyone else can see. We recommend your child undergoes school-screening if it’s available, or that you take them to an optometrist on the NHS’ says Dr Susan Blakeney.
It’s also important to be aware of family history of conditions such as myopia.
‘You’d be surprised how many parents don’t bring children in earlier even when they know there’s a family history. Children don’t need to be able to write or even speak – we can test them simply by shining a light in their eyes. They’re never too young.’
