Myopia is a growing concern among school-aged children. With a significant portion of their daily lives dedicated to studying and near-vision activities, changes in their eyesight often go unnoticed. Children frequently struggle to differentiate between clear and blurry vision, leading to many only being diagnosed when their myopia has advanced considerably.

Therefore, school myopia screening should extend beyond simply determining if a child sees clearly; it must focus on identifying risks and supporting vision monitoring. This point was highlighted in a report by Master of Science, Doctor Nguyen Huynh Yen Nhi, Head of the Myopia Control Department at Saigon Eye Hospital Cach Mang Thang Tam, during the 5th Asian Optometry Conference (AOC 2026), held on 19-20/9 in Da Nang.

Master of Science, Doctor Nguyen Huynh Yen Nhi presented a professional report at the AOC conference. *Photo: Mat Sai Gon*

Titled "Current status of refractive errors and related factors in primary and secondary school students in various regions of Vietnam: Database for integrating refractive care into school health," the report focused on identifying the prevalence of refractive errors and associated factors in students. The research aims to provide a robust database to integrate refractive care into school health programs, thereby facilitating early detection of cases requiring specialized assessment.

Detecting myopia is merely the initial step in vision care. Following screening, children require a comprehensive examination to determine their refractive status and receive appropriate monitoring advice. For those already diagnosed with myopia, adjusting their glasses improves vision but does not inherently control the progression of the refractive error.

The role of parents was also addressed in another report at AOC 2026, presented by Bachelor of Optometry Trang Si Tin from the Saigon Eye Myopia Control Center Ngo Gia Tu. This research explored parents' awareness of the long-term complications associated with severe myopia and its implications for future Lasik surgery eligibility.

This content underscores the necessity of enhancing family awareness regarding the potential consequences of severe myopia, moving beyond the sole focus on a child's clear vision with glasses. By better understanding the risks and the importance of ongoing monitoring, parents can proactively schedule eye examinations and consult with doctors about suitable myopia control solutions.

From this perspective, comprehensive school vision care necessitates multi-party cooperation. Schools play a crucial role in identifying abnormal signs. Families are responsible for monitoring their children and arranging examinations when needed. Specialized facilities then assess eye conditions, provide care recommendations, and track progression over time.

Bachelor of Optometry Trang Si Tin shared research on 'Parents' awareness of the long-term complications of severe myopia and the impacts related to Lasik surgery conditions'. *Photo: Mat Sai Gon*

Beyond professional activities, the Saigon Eye Myopia Control Center implements a community vision screening program called "Bright Eyes Squad". This initiative aims to deliver quality eye examinations and vision counseling services directly to schools, where children spend a significant portion of their day.

Through these activities, children have the opportunity to undergo vision checks, while teachers and parents gain valuable information to recognize abnormal signs and better understand eye care practices. Cases requiring further assessment are then directed to specialized facilities.

According to the center's guidelines, enhancing community awareness must go hand-in-hand with screening activities. Habits such as maintaining an appropriate viewing distance, scheduling breaks when studying or using electronic devices, increasing outdoor activities, and undergoing regular eye examinations can collectively support children's vision care. Once diagnosed with myopia, children need to adhere to their follow-up schedules and discuss progression control options with their doctor, tailored to their specific condition.

Hai My

Learn more about the Saigon Eye Myopia Control Center – a part of the Saigon Eye Hospital System – here.

Consultation and appointment booking hotline: 1900 555 553.