Prevalence and associated risk factors of myopia in adults: A narrative review

Myopia is one of the most common refractive disorders affecting adults worldwide and has emerged as a significant public health concern due to its increasing prevalence and associated ocular complications. Although myopia has traditionally been considered a childhood condition, recent evidence suggests that myopia onset and progression may continue into adulthood. The rising burden of digital device usage, prolonged near work, reduced outdoor activity, urbanization, and educational pressures have contributed to the increasing prevalence of myopia among adults. This narrative review aims to summarize current evidence regarding the prevalence of adult myopia and its associated demographic, genetic, environmental, occupational, and lifestyle-related risk factors. Literature published in peer-reviewed journals indexed in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar was reviewed. Studies indicate substantial geographic variations in prevalence, with East and Southeast Asian countries reporting the highest rates. Genetic predisposition, parental history of myopia, extensive near work, prolonged screen exposure, higher educational attainment, and limited outdoor activity are consistently associated with adult myopia. Additionally, occupational exposure involving intensive visual tasks and urban living environments have been identified as important contributing factors. Adult myopia is associated with increased risk of retinal detachment, glaucoma, cataract, myopic maculopathy, and visual impairment, thereby affecting quality of life and socioeconomic productivity. Understanding the epidemiology and risk factors of adult myopia is essential for developing preventive strategies, early interventions, and public health policies aimed at reducing the burden of visual impairment.