Project 001: Addressing The Largest Threat to Eye Health This Century
The World Health Organization has classified Myopia as the leading threat to eye health this century. They have concluded that by 2050, half of the world's population is projected to be myopic. One billion are expected to have high myopia, a severe state of the condition that can lead to retinal disease with an increased risk of blindness. We aimed to address this concern in a science-based, kid-approved solution, designed to meet the need at scale.
While some cases of myopia will emerge regardless, the rapid increase is due mainly to cultural shifts worldwide.
Genetics – Children inherit a tendency to develop myopia from their parents. Studies of myopia are well-established and have indicated the important role of genetic factors.4
Environmental Factors – These include reading, writing, and screen time. Today's culture shows that an increase in time spent indoors, away from natural light, influences myopia development.5
There are methods available today that attempt to manage myopia. However, each system comes with complexities, varied results, ongoing costs, and social stigmas.
Atropine eye drops
Multifocal contact lenses
Orthokeratology
Multifocal glasses
Ongoing costs
Risk of Infection
Social Stigma
Ghosting
Efficacy (%)
~50
~25-70
~30-56
~11-51
With each system available, while they attempt to treat myopia, they do not address the underlying cause.6
The Power of Light – Studies have demonstrated that exposure to sunlight on a regular basis promotes healthy eye development.8
Light exposure of 480nm wavelength was found to trigger the release of retinal dopamine, having a positive effect on reducing axial elongation of the eye, the malformation responsible for myopia.9,10,11
Eyewear That Solves – Our patent-pending solution passively delivers 480nm spectrum light to the eye replicating the benefits of being outdoors, even when they are not.
A science-based, kid-friendly, accessible approach to addressing eye health, and the key underlying cause of this global epidemic.
Our approach promotes healthy eye development by both addressing as well as avoiding the emergence of myopia.
Screen time has replaced outdoor play: More than 33% of parents with a child under 12 say their child began interacting with a smartphone before the age of 5.7
We co-create with scientists, technologists, and inventors to convert emerging research and foundational technologies into visionary solutions that improve our world.
With over 20 years experience in designing award-winning products and brands, Betterlab is our platform for being the change in the world we want to see.
We will be licensing our patent rights, design, and marketing support to the right partner. We are seeking potential partners who could facilitate connecting us with leading eyewear or children's healthcare brands. We welcome contact by investors or future advisors as we continue this project toward realization.