JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

The rapid rise of myopia worldwide, particularly in East and Southeast Asia, has implied environmental influences beyond genetics. To address this growing public health concern, the World Health Organization (WHO) and International Telecommunication Union (ITU) launched the MyopiaEd program. South Korea, with its high rates of myopia and smartphone use, presented a suitable context for implementing and evaluating the MyopiaEd program.

Objective:

This is the first study to date to evaluate the effectiveness and scalability of the MyopiaEd program in promoting eye health behavior change among parents of children in South Korea.

Methods:

Parents of children aged 7- and 8-year-olds were recruited through an open-access website, with a recruitment notice shared online and distributed to public elementary schools in Gwangju Metropolitan City. Beginning in September 2022, parents received 42 SMS text messages from the MyopiaEd program over six months. This digital trial utilized a mixed-methods approach, combining both quantitative and qualitative data collection. Pre- and post-intervention surveys were used to assess changes in parental knowledge and behavior regarding myopia prevention. Additionally, semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore participants' experiences in-depth and receive feedback on program design. Prior to the intervention, the MyopiaEd program design and message libraries were adapted for the Korean context following WHO and ITU guidelines.

Results:

A total of 133 parents, including 60 with myopic children and 73 with non-myopic children, participated in the study. Both groups reported high engagement and satisfaction with the program. Significant increases in knowledge about myopia were observed in both groups (p < .001). While time spent on near-work activities did not change significantly, parents of myopic children reported increased outdoor time for their children (p = 0.048). A substantial increase in eye checkups was observed, with 86.67% of myopic children and 68.49% of non-myopic children receiving eye exams following the intervention. Qualitative analysis indicated a shift in parents' attitudes toward outdoor activities as increased recognition of their benefits prompted positive changes in behavior. However, reducing near-work activities posed challenges due to children's preference for smartphone use during leisure periods and the demands of after-school academies. The credibility of the institution delivering the program enhanced parental engagement and children's adoption of healthy behaviors. Messages that corrected common misconceptions about eye health and provided specific behavioral guidance were regarded as impactful elements of the program.

Conclusions:

This study demonstrates the MyopiaEd program's potential as a scalable and innovative digital intervention to reduce myopia risk in children. The program’s effectiveness provides support for broader adoption and offers valuable insights to inform future myopia prevention policies.