Perdami: Pre-Myopia Phase is the Best Time for Intervention in Children

The Indonesian Ophthalmologists Association (Perdami) Jakarta Branch has stated that the pre-myopia phase is the best time to carry out intervention. Perdami Jakarta Chairperson Dr. Julie Dewi Barliana, Sp.M(K), M.Biomed explained that before developing myopia, a child can enter a pre-myopia phase, a condition where the eye’s refractive measurement begins to approach myopia and is at risk of developing into nearsightedness. Speaking at the ‘Meet The Expert 2026’ event in Jakarta, she noted that cases of myopia are now frequently found in children under the age of seven. The earlier myopia appears, the faster its progression. According to Dr. Barliana, without proper intervention, myopia can develop into high myopia and even pathologic myopia, which carries risks of complications such as posterior staphyloma, myopic maculopathy, foveoschisis, and optic nerve disorders that can permanently reduce vision quality. She added that children of Asian ethnicity, those with minimal outdoor activity, and those who engage in excessive near-work activities or screen time require earlier attention. Dailami Aziz, President Director of EssilorLuxottica Indonesia, stated that the company will collaborate with Perdami to enhance education on the importance of early detection and myopia management in children. He noted that the increased use of digital devices, more intensive near-work activities, and reduced outdoor playtime are factors accelerating the development of myopia. The company has developed Highly Aspherical Lenslet Target (H.A.L.T.) technology, applied in Essilor Stellest lenses, which are designed not only to correct the vision of children with nearsightedness but also to slow the elongation of the eye’s axial length.