New group to explore short-sightedness in young people

A new patient and participant focus group is being created to gather information on young people affected by myopia, otherwise known as short-sightedness.

The team at the University of Bradford are currently looking into how myopia in young people can be treated, and eye conditions associated with myopia minimised. The research is cutting-edge and hopes to make a real difference to young people who experience short-sightedness.

Dr Lindsay Rountree, lecturer at the University of Bradford, said: “We are looking for parents of children with myopia to join our group and help with discussions around diagnosis, treatment management and new research. It doesn’t matter where you live, you can take part in person or virtually, and some help for travel expenses to the groups is available. We are also keen to hear from parents who are short-sighted themselves and worry it could pass to their children.”

Dr Neema Ghorbani Mojarrad, lecturer at the University of Bradford and locum optometrist said: “People may not be aware that myopia can have a greater impact than whether or not you need glasses, which is why this research is so important. There have been significant developments in how we can treat myopia, which we want to raise awareness of. We are hoping this group will provide a platform for us to not only hear from young people with myopia and their families about their experiences and concerns, but to share our research with them, and ask their opinions about how to shape our future research to better serve the community.”

If you are interested in taking part or finding out more information please email myopia-research@bradford.ac.uk and one of the team will be in touch. Translators will be available if English is not your first language, and the team can work around your availability. The team are particularly interested in parents and children aged 6-12 years, however all interested parties are welcome.