Vision Therapy in St. Louis Hills

Does Myopia Run in Families?

(314) 351-4991

Exploring the Hereditary Nature of Myopia

Myopia, more commonly known as nearsightedness, is a visual condition that results in blurry distance vision while nearby objects remain clear. Concerns about your child's sight often lead to the question: Does myopia run in families? Understanding the genetic aspects of myopia is crucial for proactive management.

kids in classroom


mom reading book to child

The Genetic Factor

Myopia does indeed have a genetic link. If one or both parents have myopia, the likelihood of their children developing this condition increases. When both parents have myopia, the risk is even greater. Indeed, the genetic factors contributing to myopia can pass from generation to generation.

Environmental Factors

Lifestyle choices and daily habits can significantly impact myopia development and progression. Excessive screen time, a lack of outdoor activities, and prolonged periods of near work, such as reading or studying, can increase the risk of myopia.

Children are especially susceptible to environmental factors as their visual systems are still developing. These external influences can work in tandem with genetics, shaping how myopia progresses over time.


Early Intervention is Key to Myopia Control

Knowing your family's myopia history can help you seek early intervention. Effective strategies can manage and control its progression, even with a genetic predisposition.

  • Lifestyle Adjustments

    Simple lifestyle changes, like reducing screen time and increasing outdoor activities, can reduce myopia progression and protect your child's visual health.

  • Dietary Choices

    Nutritional adjustments, such as a diet rich in eye-healthy nutrients, can support your child's vision and contribute to myopia management.

  • Regular Eye Exams

    Scheduling routine eye exams allows for early detection and timely intervention, which is crucial in managing myopia.

  • Educational Support

    Providing information and support about myopia to family and friends can raise awareness, foster understanding, and create a network of care.

Patient Reviews
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34 Reviews
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- Sep. 19, 2025
Yesterday I stopped in for a simple repair. My sunglasses needed a screw. The woman who helped me wa... s so nice right off the bat. She even warned me to hold the chair as I sat down because they glide on the floor surface very easily. She repaired my sunglasses right away without asking if I had been to Chippewa Eye Center before. She would not let me pay her stating "it was just a screw". She wouldn't let me bring her back Ted Drewes, and she refused a tip. She did it out of pure kindness and in the process gained a future loyal customer if I ever need new glasses!
- Sep. 12, 2025
I was setting up an appointment for my 5 year old and could not be more impressed by Brenda and Dr. ... O’Brien. They answered all of my questions so thoughtfully. I am so bummed that they don’t take my insurance. I liked them so much that I thought about paying out of pocket for his exam. Thank you both so much!
- Aug. 21, 2025
First time customer. The customer service was excellent. A very thorough exam and explanations. Lots... of frames to choose from. Reasonable prices.
- Aug. 15, 2025
All of the staff members are absolute sweet hearts! It is a beautiful place and is very conveniently... located. I would absolutely recommend this place to anyone who is in need of new lenses and frames, as there’s a wide variety of options.
- Aug. 12, 2025
I had red left eye so sensitive to light on July 22 , 2025I did not know what to do, but I made dec... ision to call this office at 1:08 pm they said I will see you at 3:45 pm. When I arrived just fill out insurance info and Dr Emily O'Brien was waiting for me in exam room. She carefully exam my eye gave prescription eye drop and same thing the DR did the following up after that eye exam so PERFECT. Only I forgot the Lady helped me out the paper work do not know her mane but she so professional so the team I would go back to this office also recommend to everyone out there.
- Jul. 19, 2025
Great staff,excellent selection to choose from been going there for years now.
- Apr. 18, 2025
Absolutely wonderful caring staff. Dr. Burke is wonderful. State of the art equipment but the indivi... dual attention you get at a small office. The best of both worlds!!! Also, their prices are not higher than buying at a Chain like Clarkson. Customer service that is lost in today’s world. I will never go anywhere else!!!
- Mar. 20, 2025
one and only place ill ever go for eyecare. love the place. support local bizz!!
- Mar. 04, 2025
Friendly front office and staff. Dr. Bernier was very patient with me. I never felt rushed during ... his exam. Nick was professional and kind.
- Feb. 17, 2025
Got me in right away. Everyone was very professional and very friendly. Very good experience. Would ... recommend
- Jan. 16, 2025
Had an eye injury and was in pain. called as new patient hoping ot get in same day. They do not acce... pt my insurance but the office admin directed me to a place that does that could get me in! This helped me to quickly find care and for that I am so appreciative.
- Dec. 17, 2024
My daughter has had an excellent experience with the eye doctors here and she has been going for sev... eral years. Both her and I have had wonderful experiences with the optical department - very helpful and have gone above and beyond
- Sep. 20, 2024
Very polite and helpful staff!
- Sep. 17, 2024
The process of the entire appointment was seamless, and the staff was extremely helpful!
- Apr. 25, 2024
Called for an emergency they said come in, I had wood in my eye Dr Scott extremely professional got ... it out like nothing highly recommended. Everyone here was really nice.
- Nov. 13, 2023
I’ve been going to Dr. Bernier for about 15 years now and wouldn’t have it any other way. He’s... an incredible doctor- knowledgeable, kind, and truly listens to and cares for his patients. He’s a great advocate and I’m always so impressed with his team. I’ve heard stories from friends of them buying glasses and getting them adjusted at other places (specifically chains) and they are always very disappointed with the quality of product and care they receive. You won’t run into that here! Thank you so much, CEC!
- Nov. 10, 2023
Dr. Burke is excellent. Sharon my optical technician spent over an hour helping adjust 2 pairs of gl... asses that I had spent a ton of money for at another provider. She helped make my current glasses work and helped me with a new pair from their office for my technical work. I had tears of joy after I left. I could actually see!! Very few places put the EFFORT in like the Chippewa Eye Centre.
- Sep. 15, 2023
First time coming here and all I can say is everyone was great, Dr was super nice. Recommend to anyo... ne
- Feb. 18, 2023
Do not be fooled by other discounts and gimmicks from other places. This is the real deal; professio... nal and knowledgeable. Shout-out to Sharon! I will be back, and I'm bringing friends and family!
- Apr. 03, 2022
Optometrist was great didn't oversell anything addressed all of my concerns

View All 34 Reviews

Myopia Management in St. Louis Hills

Our optometry practice in St. Louis Hills

Photograph of Scott Burks
Hours
  • Monday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Tuesday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Wednesday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Thursday 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Friday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Saturday 9:00 am - 2:00 pm
  • Sunday Closed
  • Nov. 27 Closed
  • Nov. 28 Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • Spectera
  • Anthem
  • EyeMed
  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Blue Cross
  • Metlife

boy in eye exam

Professional Myopia Solutions for Your Family

Understanding the hereditary aspect of myopia is the first step in addressing your concerns. Discover how our experts can help manage the risks of myopia within your family. Visit Chippewa Eye Centre today to explore your options and ensure a clear, bright future for your child.

(314) 351-4991