Research on Development of Myopia in Children

Research Related to Development of Myopia (Nearsightedness) in Children

Dr. Katz conducted an exploratory research study with students in 15 of her classes in Fall 2006, Spring 2007, and Fall 2007 semesters. In this study, 417 students completed anonymous questionnaires about their childhood perceptions and experiences related to multiple factors, including perceived psychological stress, diet, near work, and time spent outdoors. The purpose of the research was to investigate whether these factors would show a relation to the development of myopia. Dr. Lambert conducted the statistical analyses of the research study's data.

In an extension of the above study, Dr. Katz conducted a second exploratory research study with students in 30 classes at Columbia State Community College in Spring 2012 semester.  In this study the 457 participants completed anonymous questionnaires assessing both their adult evaluation and retrospective childhood evaluation of their childhood stress.  The purpose of the research was to investigate whether psychological stress in childhood would show a relation to the development of myopia.  Dr. Berlin conducted the statistical analyses of the research study’s data.