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Astigmatism is an extremely common eye condition. In the United States, it affects approximately 1 in 3 people, or about 33% of the population. Globally, studies estimate the prevalence in adults to be around 40%, making it one of the most frequent vision problems worldwide. Unlike some conditions that are rare, astigmatism is a standard variation in eye shape that affects millions of people.
read more about astigmatism commonality in adults ...Data shows a clear link between age and astigmatism. While it can be present at birth, the likelihood of developing it increases as you get older. Studies indicate that while only about 14% of children under 15 have significant astigmatism, this number jumps to over 60% for adults over the age of 70. This increase is often due to natural changes in the cornea and lens over time.
Research has found that astigmatism rates vary by ethnicity. Studies published in journals like Ophthalmology suggest that Hispanic and Asian populations have a higher prevalence of astigmatism compared to Caucasian and African American groups. Specifically, Hispanic adults often show the highest rates of "against-the-rule" astigmatism, a specific type related to the angle of the curve.
Astigmatism rarely comes alone. It frequently happens alongside other refractive errors. Statistics show that nearly 50% of people with moderate to high nearsightedness (myopia) also have some degree of astigmatism. It is also very common in people with farsightedness (hyperopia). Having a "perfect" sphere-shaped eye is actually less common than having a slight football-shaped curve.
While many people have astigmatism, not all cases are severe. Data indicates that significant astigmatism (greater than 1.00 diopter) affects about 15% to 20% of the population. This prevalence is reflected in contact lens wearers. The Contact Lens Council reports that nearly 45% of all patients requiring vision correction have enough astigmatism to benefit from a toric contact lens, yet many still wear standard spherical lenses.
Nearsightedness (myopia) is currently more common globally, especially with the rapid rise in cases. However, astigmatism is the most common refractive error found in infants and very young children before their eyes fully develop.
Yes, it often shifts. The axis (angle) of astigmatism tends to change as eyelid tension decreases with age. The amount of astigmatism can also increase due to cataracts developing inside the eye.
Most studies show no significant difference in prevalence between men and women. It appears to affect both genders equally.
Because astigmatism is so common and often changes with age, you should have an eye exam every year or two. If you notice lights streaking at night or if your vision feels blurry even with your current glasses, you may need an updated prescription to correct a change in your astigmatism.