About the Congress
Myopia has evolved into a critical global ocular health challenge, affecting individuals across all age groups, with an unprecedented surge among children and young people worldwide. Building upon the success of our inaugural congress, the II World Congress on Myopia Control represents a revolutionary leap forward, offering an unparalleled platform for ophthalmologist experts to explore cutting-edge research, breakthrough treatments, and innovative strategies in myopia management.
This groundbreaking hybrid event combines the elegance of in-person participation in the vibrant cosmopolitan city of Curitiba, Brazil, with simultaneous global transmission, creating a truly disruptive educational experience. Set in the heart of Curitiba's historic center, our congress takes place in the magnificent Palácio Garibaldi, a neoclassical architectural jewel that perfectly embodies the city's unique blend of European heritage and modern Brazilian innovation. This cosmopolitan metropolis, known for its urban planning excellence and cultural sophistication, provides the ideal backdrop for this historic gathering.
Our congress brings together leading specialists from every continent, fostering real-time interaction between on-site and remote participants through state-of-the-art technology and professional broadcasting infrastructure. We are pioneering the future of medical congresses by eliminating geographical barriers while maintaining the prestige and networking opportunities of traditional events, all within the inspiring setting of one of Brazil's most progressive and internationally-minded cities.
This congress represents the largest gathering of myopia control experts in history, bringing together the global ophthalmology community in an unprecedented scale of collaboration and knowledge exchange.
We cordially invite you to be part of this transformative experience. Whether you join us physically in the cosmopolitan charm of Curitiba's historic center or connect virtually from anywhere in the world, you will be at the absolute forefront of myopia control advancements. This is your opportunity to contribute to a future with enhanced global ocular health, engage with the most inspiring professionals from around the globe, and witness the evolution of medical education itself.
Reserve your place in this historic moment – where tradition meets innovation, where local expertise connects with global knowledge, and where the future of myopia control is being written in one of South America's most sophisticated cultural capitals.
Dra. Tania Schaefer | President
Dr. Celso Cunha | Scientific Committee Coordinator
Schedule
DAY 1 - July 24, 2026: Scientific Foundations and Diagnosis
Epidemiology and Genetics
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Global Myopia Overview
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Genetic Factors and Gene-Environment Interaction
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Large-Scale Population Studies
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Risk Biomarkers
SESSION 2: Pathogenesis and Defocus Theory
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Emmetropization and Biological Mechanisms
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Role of Peripheral Optical Defocus
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Ocular Biomechanics and Choroid
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Advances in Molecular Understanding
SESSION 3: Examinations and Protocols
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Childhood Ocular Examination
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Advanced Imaging Technologies
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Global Guidelines
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Optic Disc Differential Diagnosis
SESSION 4: Environmental Control - Part 1
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Impact of Outdoor Time
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Behavioral Habits and Lifestyle
SESSION 5: Environmental Control - Part 2
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Public Health Programs
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Role of Light (Intensity, Spectrum)
SESSION 6: Pre-Myopia
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Criteria for Identifying At-Risk Children
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Preventive Approaches
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Large-Scale Strategies
SESSION 7: Pharmacological Treatments - Part 1
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The Legacy of ATOM Studies
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Atropine Mechanisms of Action
SESSION 8: Pharmacological Treatments - Part 2
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Protocols and Side Effects Management
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New Molecules and Pharmacological Targets
DAY 2 - July 25, 2026: Advanced Optical Therapies and Innovations
SESSION 9: Defocus Spectacle Lenses - Part 1
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Principles of Action of Defocus Lenses
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Technology Advances (including D.O.T.)
SESSION 10: Defocus Spectacle Lenses - Part 2
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Adaptation and Prescription - Best Practices
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Long-Term Results and Safety
SESSION 11: Defocus Contact Lenses
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Different Designs and Mechanisms
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Adaptation in Children and Adolescents
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Safety and Adverse Events Management
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Efficacy Comparison Between Brands
SESSION 12: Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)
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Principles and Patient Selection
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Adaptation and Complex Cases
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Complications and Management Strategies
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Current Evidence and Debates
SESSION 13: Phototherapy
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Low-Level Red Light (LLRL)
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Violet Light Therapy
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Mechanisms of Action and Protocols
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Complications and Safety
SESSION 14: Combination Treatment
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Rationale for Treatment Combinations
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Efficacy and Safety of Combinations
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Practical Clinical Cases
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Monitoring Protocols
SESSION 15: New Treatments
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Emerging and Innovative Therapies
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Advances in Scleral Research
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Future of Myopia Management
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Disruptive Technologies
SESSION 16: CONTROVERSIES (Grand Debate)
Theme: "Intervention Priorities - Global vs. Local Approaches"
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Myopic Maculopathy: Prevention and Management
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Public Health and Program Implementation
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Atropine 0.01%: Efficacy vs. Safety
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Combination Treatment: Future or Present?
"The II World Congress on Myopia Control represents the largest gathering of myopia control experts in history, combining the cosmopolitan elegance of Curitiba's historic center with revolutionary hybrid technology to deliver the most comprehensive scientific program ever assembled in the field - featuring both in-person activities at the prestigious Palácio Garibaldi and simultaneous global online transmission."
Program Highlights:
🔬 Comprehensive Scientific Coverage - 16 specialized sessions spanning from fundamental epidemiology and genetics to cutting-edge therapeutic innovations
📚 Pre-Congress Intensive Training - Advanced in-person courses in Orthokeratology, Myopia Fundamentals, and Corneal Endothelium for hands-on expertise development
🌍 Hybrid Global Experience - Join us in-person at the iconic Palácio Garibaldi, nestled in the cosmopolitan historic center of Curitiba, or participate virtually from anywhere in the world with live streaming
🔥 Live Interactive Debates - Real-time global discussion featuring both on-site and remote specialists in "Global vs. Local Intervention Priorities"
💊 Breakthrough Treatments Focus - Dedicated sessions on ATOM studies legacy, atropine protocols, emerging pharmacological targets, and innovative phototherapy approaches
👁️ Advanced Optical Solutions - In-depth exploration of defocus lens technologies (including D.O.T.), contact lens innovations, and complex orthokeratology cases
🚀 Dual Participation Options - Premium in-person experience with networking opportunities OR convenient online access with full session broadcasts
This unprecedented program combines theoretical excellence with practical application, delivered through our revolutionary hybrid format that seamlessly integrates on-site attendees with global online participants in real-time collaboration.