• has one or both parents who suffer from myopia;
• is constantly involved in near work.

Near work refers to visual activities at close distance (within an arm’s length). It includes activities such as reading, writing, art and craft work and playing with handheld or handphone games.

Although children may need to spend time on some of these activities, such as for academic purposes, it is important to limit continuous near work. It is encouraged that children take a 3-5 minute break after 30-40 minutes of near work activities for example by looking out of a window or going outdoors.

Emerging evidence suggests that spending more time outdoors may help delay the onset or progression of myopia. Therefore children are encouraged to spend time on outdoor activities daily which may include playing a sport like soccer, going for a family outing or spending time at the playground.