You Need Glasses… So Will Your Kid?
If you’ve ever gone down the rabbit hole of childhood myopia research, you’ll know it’s a maze of studies, statistics, and sometimes‑contradictory advice. I wanted to make that easier. This Myopia Risk Calculator is my attempt to tie together the major known risk factors (genetics, screen time, outdoor exposure, sleep, and near‑work habits) into a single, visual, and evidence‑based tool you can actually use.
Each variable in the calculator is rooted in published research. You’ll see whether it’s considered beneficial or harmful (and to what degree), with context drawn from the best available meta‑analyses and cohort studies. The goal isn’t to hand you an exact percentage, but to help you see which factors matter most for your child and which ones you can change.
Why This Exists
Parents often ask how worried they should be if one or both parents are nearsighted, or if their child spends too much time on screens. The reality is, genetics set the stage but environment directs the play. More outdoor time, longer sleep, and mindful screen habits can meaningfully shift the odds. This calculator summarizes those relationships in plain English (with just a hint of science‑speak).
About the Studies
Research on myopia risk spans thousands of children across Asia, Europe, and North America. The strongest consistent findings are:
Parental myopia is the single most powerful risk factor, especially when both parents are highly myopic.
Outdoor time helps, and more is better. Each additional hour spent outside per day reduces risk, up to a point.
Screen and near work contribute additively, particularly when done at short viewing distances.
Sleep plays a smaller but measurable role, with shorter durations trending toward higher risk.
Important Context
While the calculator aggregates credible data, it isn’t a medical diagnostic tool. Individual risk depends on many variables—eye growth, genetics, environment, and time. This resource is designed for educational purposes and should not replace professional advice. If you’re concerned about your child’s vision, schedule a comprehensive eye exam with a licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist.
Child Myopia Risk Calculator
This calculator estimates a child's risk of developing myopia (nearsightedness) based on key lifestyle and genetic factors. Percentages are study‑anchored context for individual factors and do not add together.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional eye care or medical advice. Individual results and risk factors vary. Always consult your eye care provider for personalized guidance.
Dr. Robert Burke is an optometrist at Calgary Vision Centre. The thoughts, opinions, and analogies shared above are intended for education and entertainment purposes only (think of them like a friendly explainer, not a personal consultation.) Every set of eyes is different, and the right testing protocol depends on your specific vision needs, health history, and lifestyle. So if you're experiencing symptoms or just have questions about your vision, don’t rely on internet content alone, talk to your optometrist or health care provider directly. We’re here to help, but nothing beats an in-person exam with someone who knows your eyes.
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