Document Type : Commentary
Authors
- M. Hossein Nowroozzadeh 1
- Joshua Ong 2
- Mohsen Ostovari 3
- Ethan Waisberg 4
- Seyed Mohammad Javad Mortazavi 3, 5
- Kaveh Abri Aghdam 6
- Seyed Alireza Mortazavi 7
1 Poostchi Ophthalmology Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
2 Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center, Michigan, Ann Arbor, United States
3 Department of Medical Physics and Medical Engineering, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
4 Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
5 Ionizing and Non-ionizing Radiation Protection Research Center (INIRPRC), Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
6 Eye Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, The Five Senses Health Institute, Moheb Kowsar Hospital, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
7 MVLS College, The University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom
Abstract
The rising prevalence of myopia in children has become a major concern due to its long-term effects on eye health and vision. This increase has prompted extensive research into the environmental and biological factors influencing eye development. Recent studies highlight the critical role of specific light wavelengths, particularly violet (360–400 nm) and blue (400–500 nm), in regulating eye growth. Violet light is thought to support choroidal health by activating photopigments in the retina, helping to maintain proper eye growth and reduce the risk of myopia. Conversely, the elimination of blue light through blue-blocking lenses has been linked to changes in the refractive dynamics of the eye, potentially contributing to excessive axial elongation—a key characteristic of myopia. Modern lighting systems, such as LED lights and the widespread use of blue-blocking lenses, have disrupted natural light exposure, reducing access to these critical wavelengths. One perspective emphasizes the importance of reintroducing violet light into children’s environments through natural sunlight and specially designed lighting systems to stabilize eye growth. Another approach focuses on minimizing the prolonged use of blue-blocking lenses during critical periods of eye development, cautioning against unintended structural changes in the eye. Future research should evaluate the potential of artificial violet light for controlling myopia, and quantify the differences between indoor and outdoor light environments. A comprehensive understanding of these factors is essential for creating effective strategies, such as optimized lighting and lens designs, to address the growing challenge of myopia in children.
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