Specsavers Canada Highlights Childhood Myopia Trends During Children’s Vision Month

Specsavers Canada issued a public advisory on childhood myopia during Children’s Vision Month, emphasizing early detection and management. The company reported that its myopia management treatments tripled over the past 18 months, with approximately 1,800 children presenting with myopia monthly across Canada. Specsavers cited an estimated 30% population prevalence for myopia, noting it increasingly affects children as young as six or seven. Clinical Services Director Naomi Barber stressed that regular comprehensive eye exams are critical because symptoms like squinting or screen proximity may not be obvious to parents. The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends annual exams for school-aged children until age 19. Specsavers, which entered Canada in late 2021 and operates 278 locations, offers affordable solutions through independent optometrists.