CHRC Researchers published study on Myopia Prevalence in EU in The Lancet Regional Health – Europe

André Rosário, in collaboration with Carla Lança, both researchers at the Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), have published a high impact article in The Lancet Regional Health – Europe. The study, titled “Prevalence of Myopia in Europe: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Data from 14 Countries”, offers the most comprehensive synthesis to date of myopia prevalence across Europe.

More than a simple prevalence analysis, this study presents a rigorous methodological assessment of how differences in study design, diagnostic criteria, and reporting standards shape our understanding of myopia trends over time.

A Growing Global Public Health Concern

Myopia is increasingly recognised as a major global public health issue. Accurate surveillance is essential to inform prevention strategies and health policy. However, inconsistencies in research methodologies present a significant barrier. This study addresses that challenge by applying advanced statistical techniques and a systematic review of the current evidence.

Methodological and Statistical Highlights:

• Use of two robust modelling approaches:
  • Freeman–Tukey double arcsine transformation
  • Generalised Linear Mixed Models (GLMM)
• Random-effects meta-analysis using REML
• Clopper–Pearson confidence intervals and GLMM-derived prediction intervals
• Meta-regression and subgroup analyses to explore heterogeneity
• Sensitivity analyses to assess robustness
• Full statistical analysis conducted in R (using the meta package)
• Risk of bias assessed via the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist
• Publication bias analysed using funnel plots, Egger’s and Peters’ tests, and meta-regression by study size
• Protocol pre-registered on PROSPERO and conducted in accordance with PRISMA and MOOSE guidelines

Key Findings:

• Myopia prevalence in Europe remains lower than in many Asian regions
• Contrary to widespread belief, data show no clear upward trend in myopia prevalence over the past two decades
• The study highlights the urgent need for standardised methodologies, especially:
  • Cycloplegic refraction
  • Age-stratified prevalence reporting

A Call for Methodological Harmonisation

The authors emphasise that reliable global surveillance of myopia depends on the harmonisation of diagnostic protocols and research methodologies. Without standardisation, prevalence estimates may be inconsistent or misleading, potentially hindering effective public health planning and policy development.

Read the full article on https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lanepe.2025.10131