Survey on Childhood Myopia in Obu City, Aichi Prefecture: Gap Revealed Between Parental Awareness (90%) and Actual Implementation (50%)

Rohto Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Osaka; President: Hidetoshi Segi) is promoting research and awareness activities regarding the maintenance of children's eye health as part of its 'Rohto Group Management Vision 2030: Connect for Well-being.' In recent years, childhood myopia has been noted to occur at younger ages and progress more rapidly, which may lead to future eye disease risks. Consequently, the importance of prevention and countermeasures, including lifestyle habits during growth periods, is increasing. Against this backdrop, the company has been engaged in continuous efforts*1 with Obu City, Aichi Prefecture—a city that promotes proactive health initiatives—through partnerships such as the 'Agreement on Eye Care Awareness in Obu City.' Recently, the city and Rohto Pharmaceutical conducted a 'Survey on the Reality of Childhood Myopia and Parental Awareness' targeting 136 elementary school students (grades 1-6) and their parents living in the city. The results revealed a gap between awareness and action: while approximately 90% of parents recognize the need for myopia countermeasures, less than half of households are actually implementing sufficient measures. *1 Continuous efforts with Obu City: ・Signed a memorandum of understanding for the 'Obu City Children's Myopia Prevention Project' (April 2022) ・Signed an 'Agreement on Eye Care Awareness in Obu City' (September 2024) ・Children's Myopia Prevention Project (via Obu City website) 1. Key Research Findings Current Status: Approximately 30% of elementary school students in Obu City use corrective measures such as glasses or contact lenses. Lifestyle Habits: About half of households report children using digital devices for two or more hours on holidays, while only about 20% report two or more hours of outdoor activity. Awareness vs. Action: While about 90% of parents expressed a desire to take countermeasures, less than half of households are implementing sufficient measures. 2. Background of the Research In recent years, childhood myopia has become a significant social issue...