Prevalence and related factors of high myopia among adults aged 50 years and older in Fujian Eye Study

PURPOSE: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of high myopia and its associated demographic and ocular factors among residents aged 50 and older in Fujian Province, Southeast China. METHODS: A population-based cross-sectional eye study was conducted from May 2018 to October 2019, enrolling residents aged 50 and older. Participants completed a questionnaire covering education, income, medical history, and lifestyle habits (including smoking, drinking, and tea consumption). They also underwent physical and ophthalmological examinations measuring height, weight, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), heart rate (HR), refraction, intraocular pressure (IOP), and visual acuity (distance and best-corrected). Statistical analysis was performed using Stata software, and a multivariate logistic regression model was employed to identify factors associated with high myopia. RESULTS: A total of 8,024 residents were included in the study. The overall prevalence of high myopia was 3.85% [95% CI: 3.43%-4.27%]. Multiple logistic regression showed that high myopia was significantly associated with inland residency (OR=0.672, p = 0.037), higher IOP (OR=1.069, p = 0.001) and higher education level (OR=1.645, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: High myopia is prevalent among Chinese adults, affecting 3.85% of the study population. The findings highlight the need for greater investment in accessible eye care services and policies aimed at inland elderly residents, particularly those with higher IOP and higher education level.