Myopie-Management bei Kindern: Delphi-Konsensbericht 2024 für Großbritannien und Irland

Purpose: With rising prevalence, myopia and its management are becoming an increasing important topic in the professional portfolio of optometrists, opticians and ophthalmologists. This article aims to provide a summary of the recent United Kingdom (UK)/Ireland consensus on myopia management in children and adolescents, and to place it in perspective by comparing its recommendations with German, European and International guidelines. Material and Methods: This narrative review highlights key statements resulting from the consensus, which used online meetings, discussions and surveys to build agreement. Results: The UK/Ireland consensus offers recommendations for assessment, management and monitoring of myopia in children and young people. Key statements include that children with early-onset high myopia and features suspicious of underlying conditions should be referred to an ophthalmologist for further investigations. Children who may benefit most from myopia management interventions are those with fastest progression, i.e. those under the age of 13 years. Optical interventions, such as peripheral-plus spectacles or contact lenses, are considered first-line treatments, and low-concentration atropine may be an option once available commercially. Lifestyle modifications such as increasing the time spent outdoors are recommended to delay myopia onset and slow progression, though more research is needed on near-work and lighting conditions. The panel also emphasized the importance of equitable access to treatments, especially in light of financial barriers. Conclusion: As evidence on effectiveness and efficacy of myopia management interventions in European populations is building, recommendations for practice show increasing alignment.