This year’s edition of Myopia Awareness Week homes in on the need for outdoor time and balanced near-work, calling for considered lifestyle changes to protect vision. 

With myopia rates rising at an alarming pace, Brien Holden Vision Institute (BHVI) and Review of Myopia Management are leading the charge again with Myopia Awareness Week 2025, running from May 19–25. This year’s theme, ‘Screens Down, Eyes Up’, seeks to highlight lifestyle changes to maintain healthy sight, calling for individuals, families and healthcare professionals to take action, said Yvette Waddell, CEO, BHVI. 

Myopia Awareness Week is a clear reminder that when the eyecare sector unites, its collective impact can be far greater, said Waddell. “Through continued collaboration, we are better positioned to address this escalating public health challenge. We need to spread the message that children who don’t spend enough time outdoors are at greater risk of developing myopia, which can progress to irreversible vision loss. While we don’t yet know everything about myopia, we know far too much to remain passive,” she said.  

Myopia Awareness Week 2025 is urging eyecare professionals to adopt four essential habits: talk about it – encouraging open conversations about myopia risks, prevention strategies and treatment advancements with colleagues, parents and children; make myopia matter – pledging to make myopia management a part of their daily routine and keep up to date with the latest treatments and management techniques; be screen smart – promoting healthy screen and near-work habits, having daily outdoor time and employing screen-time-reduction tools on smartphones and electronic devices; and finally, check in for clear vision – reinforcing the importance of regular eye exams for early detection and effective management of myopia. 

Eyecare professionals are invited to participate by sharing key messages and engaging in the conversation. A free social media toolkit – including posters, graphics, educational materials and interactive challenges – is available to help spread awareness. Supporters who join the movement will also be acknowledged across BHVI’s campaign platforms. For more, visit https://bhvi.org/maw25