Childhood myopia, or nearsightedness, has become a significant public health concern in recent decades. Although myopia rates have steadily climbing since the early 1970s, there was a significantly faster climb in childhood myopia cases in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. While myopia may initially be mitigated with glasses, its progression can significantly increase the likelihood of developing serious eye conditions later in life. High myopia, in particular, is associated with an increased likelihood of severe disorders such as glaucoma, cataracts, retinal detachment, or macular degeneration, all of which carry the potential for permanent vision loss.
A major contributor to the rising rates is excessive screen exposure. Activities that require being directly in front of a screen, such as reading or using digital devices, are strongly associated with myopia progression. Although the exact mechanisms remain under investigation, eye strain caused by sustained close focus is believed to play a significant role. Moreover, increased screen time often coincides with reduced outdoor activity, limiting exposure to natural light—a critical factor for healthy eye development. Prolonged screen use can also cause digital eye strain; some symptoms such as sore, tired, or dry eyes and headaches. Additionally, poor posture during screen use can lead to musculoskeletal issues. Excessive screen exposure is also linked to broader health concerns, including obesity, irregular sleep patterns, behavioral issues, and impaired academic performance.
Myopia, or nearsightedness, often begins in childhood and slowly becomes more severe over time.
Image Source: Mayur Kakade
Parents can take proactive steps to safeguard their children’s vision. Encouraging outdoor activities and adopting the 20/20 rule—taking a 20-second break to focus on something 20 feet away every 20 minutes of reading—can be a helpful tool to help alleviate eye strain. Maintaining proper screen positioning and ensuring appropriate viewing distances also reduces eye strain. Regular eye exams monitor vision changes and can enable early intervention.
By balancing screen time with outdoor activities and adhering to guidelines recommended by medical professionals, parents can significantly mitigate the risks associated with excessive screen use.
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