Study into young adult myopia

Professor Edward Mallen is carrying out a study on myopia in adults aged in their 20s

The University of Bradford is leading research into slowing the progression of myopia in young people in their 20s.

In collaboration with the University of Huddersfield, the study is tracking participants using spectacles or contact lenses to assess changes in prescription strength and axial length over time. Its findings are expected to inform future treatments.

Leading the research is Professor Edward Mallen, professor of physiological optics in Bradford’s School of Optometry and Vision Science.

Professor Mallen said: “Myopia management is the biggest growth area in research in optometry at the minute. Alongside myopia comes other potential eye health problems. It’s not just about the need for spectacles or contact lenses. Myopic eyes are vulnerable to things like macular degeneration and other conditions. Trying to control that is really important. It’s about slowing down myopia progression.”

Study participants are University of Bradford students and members of the public, who are being fitted with either spectacles or contact lenses to correct their myopia. They are being seen every six months to gather data, which will ultimately lead to a research paper on the findings.

Professor Mallen was awarded with an ABDO Honorary Fellowship in May 2025, and a College of Optometrists Honorary Fellowship in November 2025, making him one of only five optometrists to have been honoured with both.

Read more about this study on the University of Bradford website.