India’s demand for advanced lens technologies is no longer just a trend; it’s a necessity, driven by fundamental lifestyle shifts and greater public awareness of eye health. With screen time at record highs and evolving patient profiles, traditional lenses often fall short. Eye Care Professionals (ECPs) are now expected to take a proactive approach and partner with innovative technology providers to meet the rapidly changing needs of Indian consumers.
A recent prediction model pegged the prevalence of myopia among urban Indian children aged 5 to 15 at a concerning 21.15% in 2019, jumping from just 4.44% in 1999. If current trends continue, projections suggest this figure could reach 31.89% by 2030, 40.01% by 2040, and a staggering 48.14% by 2050. Similarly, adults face mounting risks from digital eye strain, with prevalence rates in India ranging from 22.3% to 39.8%, and up to 73% of adults under 30 experiencing symptoms due to digital device use.
The Changing Landscape of Eye Care in India
Eye care in India is undergoing a rapid transformation, and ECPs are encountering new challenges across all age groups:
- The Myopia Epidemic: Myopia is now a major public health concern, with prevalence among school children reported at 8% to 22% regionally. Mild myopia is the most common, but many children progress to moderate or severe cases. Without early intervention, progressive myopia can lead to complications such as retinal detachment and glaucoma.
- Digital Eye Strain: Indian adults spend 4.5 to 7 hours per day on screens, making digital eye strain increasingly common. Recent studies highlight that 45–73% of younger adults report symptoms, and nearly 50% to 90% of professionals working at screens experience some discomfort.
- Growing Consumer Awareness: Indian consumers are increasingly informed and demand more personalized solutions. This awareness is boosting the market for quality vision products and propelling the adoption of advanced lens technologies.
Bridging the Gap with Advanced Lens Technologies
Traditional lenses are failing to meet these modern needs. Leading-edge solutions, including myopia management lenses, blue light protective coatings, and personalized digital lenses, are essential for high standards of care.
HOYA’s Japanese Innovation in Advancing Vision Solutions
HOYA, backed by decades of Japanese research and expertise, stands out among innovators:
- MiYOSMART Lenses: Addressing myopia’s rise, HOYA’s MiYOSMART lenses feature D.I.M.S. (Defocus Incorporated Multiple Segments) technology. They are clinically proven to slow myopia progression in children, with sustained effects demonstrated over eight years.
- VisuPro Lenses: Designed to alleviate digital eye strain and early presbyopia, these lenses incorporate Focus Max Optimization and Binocular Harmonization Technology for digital comfort.
- Advanced Coatings: HOYA’s Meiryo coating is 2.5x more scratch-resistant and 5x easier to clean than competitors. The Full Control coating provides anti-bacterial protection (kills up to 99.9% of surface bacteria) and a comprehensive 4-in-1 solution.
- EnRoute Lenses: Tailored for driving challenges, these lenses include anti-reflective coatings and contrast-enhancing optics to mitigate glare and improve road safety.
HOYA’s Vision for India’s Future
HOYA is strengthening its presence in India, with state of art technology cum manufacturing plants in Chennai to service the needs of the Nation. Community engagement includes vision screening programs for commercial vehicle drivers and professional education partnerships, such as training programs with Sankara Nethralaya academy. These initiatives ensure ECPs are equipped with the latest tools and knowledge to stay ahead of market demands and foster long-term patient relationships built on trust and innovation.
Conclusion
The demand for enhanced vision solutions in India stems directly from evolving patient needs and increasing expectations for quality care. ECPs who adopt advanced lens technologies move beyond basic correction to offer tailored, effective solutions for today’s challenges, such as rising myopia rates and pervasive digital eye strain. Partnering with pioneering brands like HOYA—backed by a legacy of research and professional education—is essential for success in this dynamic