The evolution of our understanding of myopia has been shaped by significant breakthroughs, grounded in numerous thorough investigations and objective analysis. However, progress has often been hampered by conflicting observations, which can be perplexing due to the diversity of research methods, results, and conclusions. The term “Myopia” is believed to originate from New Latin, which itself is derived from the Greek word “mŭopia” (μυωπία), combining “myein,” meaning “to shut,” and “ops” (genitive: “opos”), meaning “eye.” This translates to the action of contracting or closing the eye. In ancient times, individuals with myopia depended on those with normal vision for survival, relying on them for tasks such as hunting and protection in warfare. However, with the rise of civilization, the development of agriculture, craftsmanship, and the written word provided nearsighted individuals with a more valuable role in society. Myopia, commonly known as near-sightedness, is a condition that affects a growing portion of the global population. It is a refractive error where light entering the eye focuses in front of the retina, causing distant objects to appear blurry. Over the centuries, the understanding, prevalence, and treatment of myopia have evolved dramatically. This chapter explores the changing pattern of myopia through different eras, from ancient observations to modern-day scientific advancements and public health challenges. As urbanization and lifestyle changes accelerate in the twenty-first century, myopia has emerged as a global public health issue, often referred to as the “Myopia pandemic.”

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The Changing Pattern of Myopia over the Ages

  • Mohan Rajan,
  • Suraj Nayak

摘要

The evolution of our understanding of myopia has been shaped by significant breakthroughs, grounded in numerous thorough investigations and objective analysis. However, progress has often been hampered by conflicting observations, which can be perplexing due to the diversity of research methods, results, and conclusions. The term “Myopia” is believed to originate from New Latin, which itself is derived from the Greek word “mŭopia” (μυωπία), combining “myein,” meaning “to shut,” and “ops” (genitive: “opos”), meaning “eye.” This translates to the action of contracting or closing the eye. In ancient times, individuals with myopia depended on those with normal vision for survival, relying on them for tasks such as hunting and protection in warfare. However, with the rise of civilization, the development of agriculture, craftsmanship, and the written word provided nearsighted individuals with a more valuable role in society. Myopia, commonly known as near-sightedness, is a condition that affects a growing portion of the global population. It is a refractive error where light entering the eye focuses in front of the retina, causing distant objects to appear blurry. Over the centuries, the understanding, prevalence, and treatment of myopia have evolved dramatically. This chapter explores the changing pattern of myopia through different eras, from ancient observations to modern-day scientific advancements and public health challenges. As urbanization and lifestyle changes accelerate in the twenty-first century, myopia has emerged as a global public health issue, often referred to as the “Myopia pandemic.”