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Vinmec Times City and Alina International Eye Hospital introduced a state-of-the-art facility providing tailored, evidence-based treatment in Hanoi on Wednesday, representing a significant advancement in tackling Vietnam’s increasing prevalence of childhood myopia.

The center, opened to mark World Sight Day (October 9, 2025), provides thorough and tailored eye care for children in line with global medical guidelines. It signifies a collaborative effort between two top medical organizations dedicated to promoting ophthalmology in Vietnam and safeguarding the vision of coming generations.

Officials from Vinmec Times City and Alina International Eye Hospital at the unveiling of the Vinmec-Alina International Myopia Control Unit during the signing event. Photo provided by Alina International Eye Hospital

As per the World Health Organization (WHO), almost half of the world’s population is expected to be nearsighted by 2050, with Vietnam being one of the countries experiencing the quickest increase. A 2024 study from the Vietnam Ophthalmological Society indicated that around five million children in Vietnam are affected by refractive errors, predominantly myopia. In large cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, the prevalence among students has surpassed 50%.

Experts caution that myopia is now a hidden epidemic in educational institutions. Studies indicate that any level of nearsightedness is not without risk—every one diopter increase elevates the likelihood of severe eye conditions like macular degeneration, retinal detachment, and potential blindness by approximately 67%.

Experts highlight that intervening early during the pre-myopia phase (with a refractive error less than -0.5 diopters) can greatly reduce the rate of progression. Nevertheless, traditional eye exams and standard glasses are no longer adequate. Children need more sophisticated evaluations—like measuring axial length, analyzing corneal curvature, and conducting personalized risk assessments—to identify initial symptoms and get proper care.

Myopia is no longer just a cosmetic problem; it has become a public health issue,” stated Dr. Tran Minh Ha, head of the Vinmec-Alina International Myopia Control Unit. “It affects not only a child’s vision but also their ability to learn and grow. Thanks to modern science, we can take action early to stop it from getting worse instead of simply correcting their sight. This center offers top-tier solutions to protect the eyesight of coming generations.

Dr. Tran Minh Ha, head of the Vinmec-Alina International Myopia Control Unit, addressed the inauguration event. Photo provided by Alina International Eye Hospital

The Vinmec-Alina Myopia Control Unit presents a new approach to global healthcare cooperation. It combines Vinmec’s experience as one of Vietnam’s leading private hospital networks with Alina International Eye Hospital’s advanced expertise, which fulfills 100% of WHO’s surgical quality requirements.

The effort is backed by The Fred Hollows Foundation (Australia), TVM Capital Healthcare (Singapore), and Rohto Group (Japan)—all esteemed pioneers in promoting worldwide eye health.

With the assistance of these global partners, the unit implements the most recent evidence-backed treatment methods and technologies to enhance pediatric eye care standards in Vietnam. It also introduces a collaborative approach that combines medical expertise, research, and international best practices for the benefit of local communities.

“This goes beyond a collaboration among hospitals; it is a joint effort to introduce the finest global eye care methods to Vietnamese children,” Ha stated.

What distinguishes the Vinmec-Alina Myopia Control Unit is its evidence-based, thorough, and individualized method for children’s vision care. Every child is provided with a tailored treatment strategy following diagnostic guidelines endorsed by international organizations like the International Myopia Institute, the World Council of Optometry, and the Brien Holden Vision Institute.

The center offers a comprehensive selection of clinically validated and secure treatments, such as orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses, soft contact lenses, myopia management glasses, low-dose atropine eye drops, and red-light therapy.

The Vinmec-Alina Control Unit utilizes globally recognized diagnostic and therapeutic methods to create tailored treatment plans for every child. Photo provided by Alina International Eye Hospital

All ophthalmologists and optometrists within the unit hold international certifications in managing myopia and possess significant expertise in treating pediatric and complicated refractive conditions. Children are regularly checked every six to twelve months, with comprehensive progress reports provided to parents. State-of-the-art imaging technologies and axial length monitoring facilitate early identification of fast progression.

The model also encourages cooperation among parents, educational institutions, and primary healthcare professionals to create eye-healthy surroundings and long-term vision care practices.

In addition to treatment, the Vinmec-Alina Myopia Control Unit seeks to establish a national database regarding children’s eye health, standardizing the measurement of axial length and refractive condition. This information will serve as a basis for upcoming public health initiatives and policy development.

The center commenced its official activities in October 2025 at Vinmec Times City Hospital. The initial phase involves Vietnam’s biggest school vision screening initiative to date, reaching 32,000 students between the ages of 3 and 18 in Hanoi and Hung Yen Province. The program adheres to Massachusetts-based school vision screening guidelines from the United States, including both visual acuity and structural eye evaluations.

The examination will detect early myopia and generate a comprehensive overview of children’s eye health in different areas, allowing for more precise actions.

A physician at the Vinmec-Alina International Myopia Control Unit discusses tailored vision care strategies with parents for their child. Image provided by Alina International Eye Hospital

Parents can also access the free eBook “School Vision Care Handbook,” put together by global eye experts from the Vinmec-Alina unit. The manual provides useful tips on eye-friendly study practices, managing screen time, and suggestions for outdoor activities to help avoid myopia.

The introduction of the Vinmec-Alina International Myopia Control Unit represents a major achievement in pediatric ophthalmology within Vietnam. Through the use of cutting-edge technology, international collaborations, and medical proficiency, it establishes a new standard for addressing and preventing childhood myopia.

Experts claim that the center’s unified system—integrating diagnosis, therapy, tracking, and information management—could act as a national example for vision health programs. It also demonstrates Vietnam’s increasing ability to implement and adapt global medical standards.