Efforts Grow to Classify Nearsightedness as a Disease and Expand Treatment Access
The American Medical Association passed a resolution recognizing myopia as a growing public health issue and supporting screening and prevention efforts. The American Academy of Ophthalmology said this could improve access to treatment and insurance coverage by having CMS classify myopia as a disease. Ophthalmologists warn that severe nearsightedness raises later risks of cataracts, glaucoma, macular disease, and retinal detachment.
The AMA's June 2026 resolution, introduced by AAO delegates, urges public education, childhood screening, prevention, and asks CMS to treat myopia as a disease for treatment and coverage. AAO says U.S. myopia prevalence has nearly doubled since the 1970s, now 41.6%, while WHO projects half the global population affected by 2050.
Severe myopia above -6 diopters raises later risks of cataracts, glaucoma, myopic maculopathy, and retinal detachment. Childhood options include Stellest glasses, daytime multifocal contacts, orthokeratology hard lenses, and low-dose atropine; an FDA panel may consider broader atropine approval.
If myopia gains disease classification, more children and adults might access screening, preventive treatments, and insurance coverage. Families could face earlier eye exams and intervention decisions, while health systems may need expanded pediatric eye care. Adults with high myopia may benefit from ongoing retinal monitoring even after refractive surgery. Long-term, broader recognition could reduce vision-threatening complications, though costs, access, and implementation challenges may shape actual impact.