Pharmacological, optical, and combined approaches to myopia control in Bulgarian children: a longitudinal study

Abstract

Abstract. This study presents different treatments, including both medication and glasses, that affect the progression of myopia in children over time. A total of 250 children aged 6 to 16 were evaluated for a period of 36 months. For the purpose of the study, four groups were formed: one group of pediatric patients receiving low-dose atropine (0.01%), another group wearing defocus-modifying glasses, a third group receiving both treatments, and a control group with no treatment. Key biometric indicators, such as axial length, spherical equivalent, and best-corrected visual acuity, were measured at the start of the study and after that every six months. Non-parametric statistical methods were used to compare changes within each group over time and to identify differences between groups. The protocol achieved high data completeness and showed significant changes within the groups (p<0.001). Clear differences between groups appeared after 12 months. The results suggest that combining atropine and defocus lenses is most effective in slowing myopia progression while maintaining good vision.