American Medical Association Backs Classification of Nearsightedness as Disease

The American Medical Association has adopted a resolution classifying nearsightedness as a disease rather than a routine inconvenience, calling for insurance coverage of treatments that can slow its progression in children. Myopia rates in the U.S. have nearly doubled in 50 years to 41.6% of the population, with the WHO predicting half the world will be nearsighted by 2050, creating significant public health concerns as severe myopia increases risks of blindness. The resolution supports access to several FDA-approved treatments including special eyeglasses, multifocal contact lenses, orthokeratology, and low-dose atropine eye drops.