Many Filipinos are familiar with the term myopia—more commonly called nearsightedness. It is a condition where distant objects appear blurry while close ones remain clear. With rising cases among children and young adults in the Philippines, parents often ask: “Is myopia genetic?”
The short answer is yes, genetics play a significant role. But the full story is more complex. Lifestyle choices such as screen time, study load, and outdoor exposure interact with inherited factors, shaping whether myopia develops and how quickly it progresses. In this article, we’ll explore the latest evidence on genetics, environment, and what families can do to protect their eye health.
What Does It Mean When We Say Myopia Is Genetic?
Myopia is not caused by a single gene. Instead, it is a polygenic condition, which means that hundreds of small genetic variations combine to influence how the eye grows. If the eye elongates too much, light entering does not focus properly on the retina, resulting in blurred distance vision.
- Studies show that children with one myopic parent are more likely to develop myopia than those with none.
- If both parents are myopic, the risk increases dramatically.
- This tendency demonstrates that heredity is a strong predictor.
However, genetics is not destiny. Even children with strong family histories may avoid or delay myopia if certain environmental factors are managed.
The Evidence on Heritability
Twin and family studies estimate that 50% to 90% of the variation in myopia risk can be explained by heritability. In simple terms, genetics set the stage. But lifestyle determines how the play unfolds.
For example:
- A large study from Asia showed that children with two myopic parents had nearly three times the risk of developing high myopia compared to children without myopic parents.
- Research also confirms that while genetic risk is high, environmental factors like education and time outdoors can accelerate or slow down the condition.
What Do We Know About the Genes?
More than 400 genetic markers have now been linked to refractive error and myopia. These genes influence:
- How the eye grows in length.
- How the retina and sclera (outer layer of the eye) develop.
- How the eye responds to light and visual signals.
Importantly, no single gene “causes” myopia. Instead, small variations accumulate. This is why a polygenic risk score—a tool combining many genetic signals—is being studied to predict who might need early intervention. At present, such genetic testing is still research-based and not yet used in routine clinical care.
Global and Local Trends
Worldwide, the numbers are concerning. By 2050, it is estimated that half of the world’s population will be myopic, and around 10% will have high myopia—a condition linked to serious complications like retinal detachment and glaucoma.
In Asia, including the Philippines, the trend is even more pronounced due to educational demands and urban lifestyles. Eye doctors across Metro Manila and other major cities report rising cases among children as young as six.
Practical Checklist for Families in the Philippines
- Schedule yearly eye exams for school-aged children.
- Encourage outdoor play—basketball, biking, or even walking.
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes of near work, take a 20-second break to look 20 feet away.
- Limit prolonged screen exposure, especially in younger children.
- Discuss with an eye doctor about myopia control strategies if your child already shows early signs.
Conclusion
So, is myopia genetic? The answer is yes—family history and genetic makeup strongly influence the likelihood of developing nearsightedness. However, environment plays an equally powerful role. Screen time, outdoor habits, and education demands all interact with genes to determine outcomes.
For Filipino families, awareness is the first step. By combining regular eye check-ups, healthy lifestyle choices, and available treatments, the risk of severe myopia can be reduced.
At Shinagawa Lasik & Aesthetics, one of the world’s leading providers of LASIK and advanced eye care, we are committed to helping patients in the Philippines understand their risks and explore effective solutions. With expert surgeons, cutting-edge technology, and comprehensive patient care, Shinagawa stands as a trusted partner in protecting and restoring clear vision for life.
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Citations and Resources
Shinagawa LASIK & Aesthetics strives to provide accurate and reliable information regarding LASIK procedures and eye health. We utilize primary sources to support our content, including peer-reviewed scientific studies, data from reputable medical organizations, and expert opinions. We also reference established publications and research where appropriate.
Our commitment to evidence-based information ensures that you receive trustworthy and up-to-date details to make informed decisions about your eye care.
Resources Used in This Article
- PubMed. “Myopia Genetics and Heredity, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8947159/“
- All About Vision. “Is myopia more genetic or environmental?, https://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/myopia/genetic-or-environmental/“
- National Academies Press. “Understanding Myopia and Its Prevalence, https://nap.nationalacademies.org/read/27734/chapter/5“
- Journal of Physiological Anthropology. “The influence of the environment and lifestyle on myopia, https://jphysiolanthropol.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40101-024-00354-7“