Twelve month refractive and axial length changes in the Israeli refractive error, activity, and devices (iREAD) study

The Israel Refraction, Environment, and Devices (iREAD) is a longitudinal study assessing myopia risk factors in three groups of boys with distinct lifestyles. Ultra-Orthodox (N = 41), Religious (N = 53), and Secular (N = 41) boys (ages 8.6 ± 1.5 years) had eye exams at baseline and 12 months, including cycloplegic autorefraction and axial length. Ocular history, education, near work, and electronic device use were assessed. Time outdoors and physical activity were measured objectively. At 12 months, myopia prevalence increased from 32 to 40% (P = 0.02), with no group differences (P > 0.05). The Ultra-Orthodox group had a more myopic spherical equivalent refraction (SER) at baseline and 12 months than the Religious and Secular groups and more myopic shift at 12 months (P < 0.05 for all). The Ultra-Orthodox group spent less time using electronic devices, more time in school, read at an earlier age, and had higher parental myopia (P < 0.01 for all). Time outdoors and activity did not differ between groups (P > 0.05 for both). In univariate and multivariate analyses, group and parental myopia were associated with greater myopic shift of SER and axial elongation (P < 0.05). In conclusion, risk factors associated with greater myopia progression included being part of the Ultra-Orthodox educational system and number of myopic parents and not screen use.