A growing number of kids are experiencing difficulty seeing the whiteboard clearly, despite having no trouble reading books. This trend is not a coincidence. Medical professionals worldwide are witnessing a significant increase in childhood myopia, commonly known as near-sightedness, and recent findings indicate that this surge is occurring at a faster rate than anticipated.
Typically, myopia begins during childhood, usually between six and fourteen years of age. Children with myopia can see objects nearby clearly but struggle with distant vision. What is worrying experts today is not just the prevalence of the condition but also its early onset and rapid progression.
Traditionally, genetics was believed to be the main cause. Children with near-sighted parents have a higher susceptibility. However, genetics alone cannot account for the sudden spike. Researchers now attribute environmental factors, particularly children’s activities, as the primary influencer.
A significant association has been found between prolonged near work and myopia. Activities like reading, writing, and excessive screen time require the eyes to focus at close distances for extended periods. Recent research indicates that each extra hour spent on screens daily heightens the risk of myopia in children. The issue was exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic when kids spent prolonged periods indoors attending virtual classes with limited outdoor exposure.
Outdoor time seems to be a crucial protective element. Natural daylight aids in regulating eye growth during childhood. Increased outdoor time reduces the likelihood of eye elongation, a structural change linked to myopia. Studies have shown that an additional hour spent outside daily can lower the risk of myopia.
Myopia is now being regarded as a lifestyle-related concern rather than just a vision issue. Modern childhood experiences more indoor activities, with tasks like homework, entertainment, and socializing shifting to screens. Outdoor play, once a routine part of daily life, has become less common.
The worry extends beyond the need for corrective lenses. Severe or progressive myopia can heighten the risk of serious eye conditions in later life, such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and early-onset cataracts. Early detection is crucial.
Simple adjustments at home can have a significant impact. Encouraging children to take breaks during close-up tasks can alleviate strain. Many experts recommend the “20-20-20” rule: every 20 minutes, look at something at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Equally important is prioritizing outdoor time as a fundamental requirement for healthy development, not just as a reward.
Parents often fear that limiting screen time will hinder learning. However, experts argue that it is about achieving a balance. Vision health improves when near activities are balanced with distance viewing and exposure to natural light.
The increase in childhood myopia is not about assigning blame but about raising awareness. Children’s eyes are still developing, and their surroundings influence this growth. By recognizing the risks early and adjusting daily routines, parents can safeguard their children’s clear, healthy vision for the long term.