Poor Sleep Increases Myopia Risk

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More Evidence That Sleep Matters

A study published last year in BMC Ophthalmology showed that children with irregular sleep-wake schedules who get less than 7 hours of sleep each night have a higher rate of myopia.

As physicians, we know that humans function best mentally and physically when they get enough regular sleep. It is not surprising that multiple studies have shown that irregular and reduced sleep schedules can contribute to an increased amount of myopia.

In this study, researchers in China recruited more than 30,000 school-aged kids and found convincing data that there is, in fact, a connection between irregular sleep schedules and a risk for developing myopia. In the entire cohort, the overall prevalence rate of myopia was 49.8%, with elementary school students at 25.6%, junior high at 62.4%, and high school students at 75.7%. The researchers observed a statistically significantly higher amount of myopia in patients with irregular versus regular sleep patterns. They also noted the following factors increased the risk of myopia: lack of a daytime nap, less than 7 hours of sleep per night, irregular bedtimes and wake times, and differing sleep/wake times on weekends.

My Two Cents

Another week, another study revealing a newly found contributing cause for increased myopia rates. As children grow and change, it makes sense that poor sleep patterns would affect every aspect of their development, including the amount of refractive error. As the parent of a 5-year-old child, this study reminds me to be even more conscious about following a strict bedtime routine with him. Suffice it to say, this is a bedtime story he likely won’t be happy that I read.

OUTSIDE THE LANE

Appreciate the Little Things

Using an eyelash for a paintbrush, micro-sculptor Willard Wigan created a work of art in the eye of a needle. According to BBC News, Mr. Wigan created the micro-sculpture of three tiny wise men, along with their camels, inside the eye of a standard-sized needle because he wanted to bring “light to the world.” The artist worked between heartbeats and held his breath to limit any disturbances that might ruin his delicate work. He describes the process as “trying to put a pin through a bubble without bursting the bubble.”

Said Mr. Wigan, “We’re living in troubled times, and sometimes we need to see something that’s going to bring some happiness to us and pleasure and fun.” He told BBC News that he worked 16 hours daily on the project (no details on the number of days required) and used nylon to create the camels and the crowns from 24-carat gold.

My Two Cents

I imagine Mr. Wigan would be incredible at removing corneal foreign bodies! What’s also fascinating is that he has autism and comments that, “Because I’m autistic because I can’t read, I found my journey, and I inspire people with what I do, so people can see who I am and what I’m about.” This is another reminder that everyone has their niche in life, even in the smallest of tasks.

CAN YOU RELATE

The new year has already begun. It’s a popular time to establish a New Year's resolution, although within a few weeks—or even days—many are already broken. Can you guess some of the most commonly made resolutions?

Improve Fitness. A recent survey shows that 48% of people aim to improve their physical fitness (notably to lose weight) in the new year.

Improve Finances. Around 38% of people prioritize saving more money, spending less, or getting out of debt in 2024.

Improve Mental Health. Around 36% of people aim for better mental health with the help of stress management, mindfulness practices, or professional help. (Read more here.)

I challenge each of you reading this to create a “professional” New Year’s resolution. What can we, as members of the optometric community, set as our resolutions? Below are some ideas.

• Attend an out-of-town or regional conference. Preferably, it should be a meeting you’ve never been to in a city you aren’t familiar with. This will let you stay current with the latest advances in the field while also enjoying some much-needed rest and relaxation in a new environment.
• Develop or advance a new specialty or skill. How about diving deeper into an area of interest within our profession? Look into neuro-optometry, vision therapy, AMD management, dry eye, etc.
• Become a published author. Why not write an article in an area in which you specialize or have a keen interest in? Share your expertise with those of us who may not have your experience or knowledge.
• Improve your communication skills. Work on your patient education skills, staff communication skills, or even your communication skills with the industry reps who regularly rotate through your practice.
• Read a business book — or two or three. There are so many great business books available that can help dial in those communication skills mentioned above, among so many other aspects of your daily professional life.
• Bring one new technology into the office. Self-explanatory! Just ensure it will get used and not become an expensive paperweight.
• Work on streamlining the patient experience. Take an active approach to reduce wait times and call times or make appointment waitlists a thing of the past.
• Give back to your community. Volunteer your time and expertise to help those who are less fortunate in your local area. This will provide a boost in community relationships while undoubtedly providing personal fulfillment.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

“Be curious, not judgmental.”

— Ted Lasso, courtesy of Walt Whitman