Astigmatism Epidemiology Forecast 2025-2034

Astigmatism is a common visual disorder arising from an uneven curvature of the cornea or lens, leading to blurred or distorted vision at various distances. This type of refractive error impacts approximately 40.4% of adults and 14.9% of children worldwide.

Astigmatism Epidemiology Forecast Report Coverage

The Astigmatism Epidemiology Forecast Report 2025-2034 delivers a comprehensive analysis of the condition’s prevalence and associated demographic factors. It projects future incidence and prevalence trends across diverse population groups, considering key variables such as age, gender, and astigmatism type. The report highlights change in prevalence over time and offers data-driven forecasts based on influencing factors. Additionally, it provides an in-depth overview of the disease, along with historical and projected epidemiological data for eight key markets:

The United States, United Kingdom, France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Japan, and India.

Astigmatism:

Disease Overview

Astigmatism is a common refractive error where the cornea or lens has an irregular shape, preventing light from focusing evenly on the retina. This results in blurred or distorted vision at all distances. It can occur alongside other vision problems like myopia or hyperopia and may cause eye strain, headaches, or difficulty seeing clearly, especially at night. Astigmatism affects both adults and children and can be present from birth or develop over time. Diagnosis is made through a routine eye exam, and treatment includes corrective lenses or refractive surgery, depending on severity.

Epidemiology Overview

The astigmatism epidemiology section presents insights into the patient population, spanning historical data through current and projected trends across eight key markets. The Research compiles both existing and forecasted patterns for astigmatism by evaluating a wide array of scientific studies. The analysis includes the diagnosed patient population and tracks developments over time. Data is categorised by factors such as total prevalence among males and females, as well as across different age groups and demographic segments.

• A literature review found the prevalence of astigmatism to range between 8% and 62% in the general population, with older adults particularly those aged 70 and above, showing higher rates. The study also noted that oblique and against-the-rule astigmatism increased with age, while with-the-rule astigmatism was more frequently observed in individuals aged 40 and under.
• Further research suggested that untreated astigmatism can lead to amblyopia. According to findings from the Vision in Preschoolers study, 13.2% of eyes with uncorrected astigmatism between 1.0 and less than 2.0 dioptres were amblyopic, and this figure rose to 19.6% for eyes with astigmatism of 2.0 dioptres or greater in children aged 3 to 5 years in The United States.
• Another study identified a strong genetic link to astigmatism. Researchers assessed 506 female twin pairs in Britain using data from both eyes in a multivariate model and found the estimated heritability of astigmatism to lie between 50% and 65%, slightly lower than the heritability rates for conditions such as myopia and hyperopia, which have been reported as high as 86%.
• An additional population-based study found that the average age of individuals with astigmatism skewed slightly older and that the condition was more common among women (58%) than men (42%). The same study reported that astigmatism affected 40.4% of adults and 14.9% of children, highlighting age and gender-related patterns in its prevalence.

Astigmatism:

Treatment Overview

Astigmatism is manageable through various corrective approaches aimed at improving visual clarity and reducing associated symptoms such as headaches or eye strain. Treatment depends on the degree of refractive error, patient age, lifestyle, and eye health. Common options include prescription eyeglasses, contact lenses, and surgical procedures. Early diagnosis and appropriate management can significantly enhance quality of life by restoring clear and comfortable vision. In cases where astigmatism is accompanied by other conditions such as myopia or hyperopia, combination treatments may be recommended to ensure optimal results.

1. Prescription Eyeglasses

Eyeglasses are the most common and non-invasive method to correct astigmatism. They use specially designed cylindrical lenses to counteract the irregular curvature of the cornea or lens. These lenses refocus light evenly onto the retina, restoring clear vision. Eyeglasses are particularly suitable for individuals of all ages, including children and those with mild to moderate astigmatism. Regular eye check-ups are important, as prescriptions may need adjustment over time. Eyeglasses are often preferred for their simplicity, affordability, and ease of use, although they may not provide a complete solution for higher degrees of astigmatism.

2. Contact Lenses

Contact lenses offer an alternative to glasses and can provide clearer peripheral vision. For astigmatism, toric contact lenses are commonly used, as they are specially designed to accommodate the eye’s irregular curvature. Rigid gas permeable lenses may be recommended for individuals with higher levels of astigmatism, offering sharper vision than soft lenses. Proper hygiene and care are essential to prevent infections or complications. Some patients may opt for hybrid lenses, which combine the comfort of soft lenses with the clarity of rigid lenses, making them ideal for moderate to severe astigmatism.

3. Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)

Orthokeratology involves wearing specially designed rigid contact lenses overnight to temporarily reshape the cornea. These lenses gently flatten the cornea while sleeping, allowing the user to experience improved vision throughout the day without the need for glasses or daytime contacts. Ortho-K is especially popular among children and teenagers with progressing astigmatism or those involved in sports. Although the effects are temporary and reversible, consistent use is required to maintain visual clarity. It is a non-surgical option, but close monitoring by an eye care professional is crucial to ensure safety and effectiveness.

4. Laser Eye Surgery (LASIK/PRK)

Laser eye surgeries like LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) or PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) offer long-term correction for astigmatism by reshaping the cornea with a laser. These procedures are suitable for adults with stable vision prescriptions. LASIK involves creating a corneal flap before laser application, while PRK reshapes the surface directly. Both procedures have high success rates, but some patients may experience dry eyes or light sensitivity temporarily. A thorough preoperative evaluation is necessary to determine candidacy. Laser surgery can reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses in many cases.

5. Intraocular Lens Implants (IOLs)

For individuals undergoing cataract surgery or those unsuitable for laser correction, toric intraocular lens implants may be recommended. These lenses are surgically placed in the eye to correct astigmatism along with other refractive errors. IOLs provide a permanent solution and are customised to each patient’s optical needs. This treatment is often used in older adults or individuals with significant lens opacities. The procedure is generally safe and conducted under local anaesthesia. Recovery is quick, and many patients report significantly improved vision and reduced dependency on corrective eyewear post-surgery.

Astigmatism:

Burden Analysis

Astigmatism, a prevalent refractive error, significantly impacts the quality of life by causing blurred vision, eye strain, and headaches. Those affected may struggle with daily activities such as reading, driving, or working on a computer. In severe cases, it can lead to discomfort and difficulty in seeing at night, affecting professional and social engagement. Children with untreated astigmatism may experience delayed development in visual and motor skills. Moreover, the condition can contribute to emotional distress, especially in adults, due to its cosmetic impact and dependency on corrective lenses, which can affect self-esteem and quality of life.

Key Epidemiology Trends

The epidemiological trends of astigmatism continue to evolve as global awareness of visual disorders increases and diagnostic technologies improve. Astigmatism, a common refractive error caused by the irregular curvature of the cornea or lens, is found in both adults and children, although prevalence rates may differ by age group, gender, and region. As the understanding of the condition progresses, so does the data surrounding its occurrence and impact. Below are five key trends in the epidemiology of astigmatism:

1. Higher Prevalence in Older Populations

Astigmatism tends to become more prevalent with age. Research has shown that the condition often develops or worsens in adults, particularly those over the age of 40. This age-related increase is likely linked to changes in the shape and flexibility of the cornea over time. In older adults, the irregularities in the corneal shape can worsen, leading to more noticeable symptoms, including blurred vision and headaches. This trend is important as it highlights the need for regular eye examinations, especially for older populations, to detect and correct astigmatism early and prevent further visual impairment.

2. Geographical Variations in Prevalence Rates

The prevalence of astigmatism varies significantly across different countries and regions. Various studies have found that some regions report higher prevalence rates than others. For example, countries in Asia, particularly China and Japan, tend to report higher rates of astigmatism compared to regions like North America and Europe. Environmental factors such as exposure to sunlight, the level of outdoor activities, and even genetic factors may influence these regional disparities. The growing global burden of refractive errors, including astigmatism, underscores the importance of region-specific strategies for eye care and education.

3. Increased Awareness and Early Diagnosis

With advancements in diagnostic technology, such as corneal topography and wavefront analysis, astigmatism is increasingly being detected earlier in life. Earlier diagnosis is particularly important in children, where untreated astigmatism can lead to amblyopia, or “lazy eye,” which can affect a child’s ability to see clearly. Early intervention, such as corrective glasses or contact lenses, can help prevent long-term visual impairment. The rise in awareness of the condition has also led to more individuals seeking out regular eye exams, contributing to the detection and correction of the condition before it has a chance to affect quality of life significantly.

4. Increased Risk in Children

While astigmatism can affect people of all ages, it is notably prevalent in children. It is often present at birth or develops in early childhood, with research showing that many young children are diagnosed during routine eye exams. If untreated, astigmatism can affect a child’s learning, coordination, and social interaction. This trend is concerning because it highlights the importance of early screening, especially in countries where pediatric eye care may be less accessible. Timely treatment, including corrective eyewear, can greatly reduce the risks of developmental delays and ensure a better quality of life for young children.

5. Impact of Digital Screen Use on Prevalence

The growing reliance on digital devices for work, school, and leisure is having a noticeable impact on eye health, including the prevalence of astigmatism. Extended use of smartphones, computers, and other screen devices can contribute to visual strain and exacerbate existing refractive errors. This trend is particularly concerning for younger populations who spend more time on screens. Prolonged exposure can lead to eye fatigue, and though it may not directly cause astigmatism, it can lead to the worsening of its symptoms. The trend is fueling discussions about the need for proper eye care, screen breaks, and eye exercises to mitigate the negative effects of digital screen use.

Analysis By Region

The epidemiology of astigmatism varies across countries and regions due to differences in healthcare infrastructure, socioeconomic factors, cultural attitudes towards pain, and access to pain management therapies. Understanding these variations is essential for developing targeted interventions and improving patient outcomes.

Key regions include:

• The United States
• Germany
• France
• Italy
• Spain
• The United Kingdom
• Japan
• India

These regions exhibit distinct epidemiological trends, reflecting the unique challenges and opportunities within their healthcare systems.

The epidemiology of astigmatism differs across countries due to varying influences such as obesity, tobacco use, diabetes, and other contributing factors. A 2023 study highlighted significant differences in prevalence among nations and regions:

Germany reported 32%, Spain and Japan both reported 54%, while The United States showed a range between 11% and 46%. South Korea reported prevalence rates between 31% and 58%, and Northern and Western Europe averaged around 27%. Among all regions included in the study, China recorded the highest prevalence of astigmatism, with a rate of 62%.

Key Questions Answered

• How does the prevalence of astigmatism differ across various age groups, and what factors contribute to this variation?
• What are the primary environmental and genetic factors influencing the development of astigmatism in different populations?
• How does the prevalence of astigmatism in children compare to that in adults, and what are the long-term impacts if left untreated in early years?
• What regional differences exist in the rates of astigmatism, and what social or environmental factors might explain these disparities?
• How can early detection of astigmatism in school-aged children improve visual development and academic performance?
• What role do lifestyle factors, such as screen time, play in the increasing prevalence of astigmatism in young adults?
• How does astigmatism correlate with other refractive errors like myopia or hyperopia in different demographics?
• What are the most common complications or comorbidities associated with untreated astigmatism?
• How do advancements in diagnostic technology impact the detection and management of astigmatism across various populations?
• What are the long-term economic and healthcare costs associated with untreated or inadequately treated astigmatism?

Scope of the Report

• The report covers a detailed analysis of signs and symptoms, causes, risk factors, pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment options, and classification/types of astigmatism based on several factors.
• The astigmatism epidemiology forecast report covers data for the eight major markets (the US, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the UK, Japan, and India)
• The report helps to identify the patient population, the unmet needs of astigmatism are highlighted along with an assessment of the disease's risk and burden.