Br J Ophthalmol

Reduced myopia risk seen in kids with higher omega-3 intake

August 27, 2025

Study details: The Hong Kong Children Eye Study analyzed data from 1,005 Chinese children aged 6 to 8 years to assess the relationship between dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 PUFAs) and myopia. Dietary intake was measured using a validated food-frequency questionnaire, and ocular parameters (including cycloplegic spherical equivalent [SE] and axial length [AL]) were assessed using standard ophthalmic instruments. Multivariable models adjusted for age, sex, BMI, near-work, outdoor time, and parental myopia.

Results: Children in the lowest quartile of ω-3 PUFA intake had significantly longer AL (23.29 mm vs. 23.08 mm; P=0.01) and more myopic SE (−0.13 D vs. 0.23 D; P=0.01) compared with those in the highest quartile. A clear trend was observed for both AL and SE (p-trend=0.02 and 0.01, respectively). Conversely, higher saturated fat intake correlated with longer AL and more myopic SE. No other nutrients showed significant associations with myopia risk.

Clinical impact: Higher dietary ω-3 PUFA intake may be protective against myopia development in children, while higher saturated fat intake may increase risk. This supports consideration of dietary modification as part of myopia prevention strategies, though further longitudinal and interventional studies are needed to establish causality and optimal intake levels.

Source:

Zhang XJ, et al. (2025, August 19). Br J Ophthalmol. Dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids as a protective factor of myopia: the Hong Kong Children Eye Study. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40829948/