The Alarming Rise of Myopia in Indoors: A Call to Action for Parents
As the 2026 school year approaches, optometrists are urging parents to prioritize outdoor play for their children, armed with new data from Bupa Optical. The latest findings reveal a concerning trend: 27% of Australian children who underwent eye tests last year were diagnosed with myopia. This alarming statistic highlights the growing need to address the issue of myopia among children.
Research shows that spending time outdoors can significantly reduce the risk of myopia in children. However, outdoor play is declining. According to a separate study (https://www.playaustralia.org.au/sites/default/files/State%20of%20Play_final.pdf), 50% of kids are not allowed to play outside alone or with friends, and a quarter of Aussie kids feel they need more opportunities to play outside and socialize.
The rise in myopia rates, especially post-COVID, is attributed to fundamental lifestyle changes that persist beyond lockdowns. Bupa Optical Optometrist Karen Makin notes that more parents are reporting vision problems affecting their children's classroom performance. While genetics play a role, the common thread among new cases is increased screen time and reduced outdoor play.
A 2025 Macquarie University study found that secondary school students spend an average of 9 hours daily on screens, while primary students spend approximately 6 hours. This exceeds government recommendations for young people aged 5-17, which advise no more than 2 hours of sedentary recreational screen time per day.
Karen Makin emphasizes the importance of early detection and management of myopia. Vision problems can be subtle, making it challenging for parents to identify. She recommends yearly eye tests for children before the school year to ensure early detection and intervention. Bupa Optometrists offer various treatments, including special-purpose glasses, contact lenses, and Orthokeratology, a method that uses hard contact lenses worn overnight to correct vision and control myopia progression.
Karen Makin concludes by encouraging parents to prioritize outdoor play, stating, 'We would much prefer a child didn't need vision correction and myopia management. So, send your children out to play in the backyard.' Eye tests are also bulk-billed for eligible Medicare cardholders at Bupa Optical, ensuring accessibility for families.
This article highlights the urgent need for parents to address the decline in outdoor play and its impact on myopia rates. By taking proactive measures, we can protect our children's vision and promote a healthier lifestyle.
