High myopia, also known as degenerative myopia, is a leading cause of blindness. This degree of myopia is often associated with degenerative eye conditions and diseases like glaucoma and cataract affect both vision and ocular health. Because high myopia is caused by abnormal elongation of the eyes, the retina and parts of the eye responsible for sending signals to the optical nerve are most affected. Stretching and thinning of the retina weakens the eye and increases the risk for retinal detachment. Without immediate medical attention a detached retina can cause blindness.