Myopia in the Digital Age: Why It’s Increasing in Children and How to Prevent It

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a common eye condition where distant objects appear blurry while close objects are clear. It occurs when the eyeball grows too long or the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. In recent years, the prevalence of myopia has surged, particularly among children. Studies estimate that over 30% of the global population is affected, and these numbers are rising rapidly. The digital age, characterized by increased screen time and less outdoor activity, is a significant contributor to this growing issue, particularly among younger individuals.

Changes in Digital Activity Before and After COVID-19

Dr Mandeep Singh Basu, Director, Dr. Basu Eye Hospital & Jagat Pharma, says, “Before the COVID-19 pandemic, children already spent considerable time using screens for activities like watching television, using tablets, and playing video games. However, during the pandemic, with school closures and lockdowns, screen exposure reached unprecedented levels. Remote learning became a necessity, leading to children spending extended hours on computers and tablets for both education and entertainment. This sudden and sustained increase in screen time has worsened the already growing issue of myopia among children.”

The Impact of the Digital Age on Children’s Vision

The digital era has provided numerous conveniences and learning opportunities, but it has also come with downsides, particularly for children’s vision. Dr Basu adds, “Excessive use of digital screens leads to eye strain, dryness, and an increased risk of developing myopia. Children’s eyes are still developing, and prolonged focus on screens can cause accommodative stress, where the eyes struggle to adjust between near and far objects. This constant close-up work interferes with the natural development of the eyes, especially in younger children.”

Dr Basu shares reasons for the increase in Myopia

1. Increased Screen Time With the widespread use of smartphones, tablets, and computers, children are spending more time focusing on digital screens. This increase in screen time leads to eye strain and increases the risk of myopia, as the eyes are under constant pressure to focus on close objects for long durations.
2. Reduced Outdoor ActivityOutdoor play is essential for healthy eye development. Natural light plays a crucial role in slowing the progression of myopia by encouraging proper eye growth. However, children are spending more time indoors, engaging in activities like video gaming or watching videos, which reduces their exposure to natural light.
3. Early Exposure to Digital Devices Children are being exposed to screens at increasingly younger ages. Tablets and smartphones are commonly used by toddlers, and preschoolers often engage with educational apps. Early and prolonged screen exposure at such a young age can negatively affect visual development, increasing the likelihood of myopia.
4. Lack of Eye BreaksWith digital learning becoming a norm, children often spend extended periods on screens without taking regular breaks. This continuous screen exposure without sufficient rest accelerates digital eye strain and contributes to the progression of myopia.

Dr Basu suggests prevention strategies:

1. The 20-20-20 Rule A simple yet effective strategy to prevent digital eye strain is to follow the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, children should take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This helps relax eye muscles and reduce strain.
2. Proper Lighting Ensure that children are using screens in well-lit environments. Poor lighting, whether too bright or too dim, can contribute to eye strain. Position screens to avoid glare and adjust the brightness to comfortable levels.
3. Regular Eye Check-ups Routine eye check-ups are crucial for early detection of vision problems. Regular screenings can help track changes in vision and allow for early interventions to slow the progression of myopia.

Nutritional Support for Eye Health

A healthy diet plays an essential role in supporting eye health and preventing vision problems. Key nutrients for eye health include:

1. Omega-3 Fatty AcidsOmega-3 fatty acids, found in fish like salmon and flaxseeds, are essential for maintaining eye moisture and reducing dry eyes, which are common with prolonged screen use.
2. Vitamin AVitamin A, found in carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach, is vital for good vision. It helps maintain the retina’s health and reduces the risk of night blindness.
3. Lutein and ZeaxanthinThese antioxidants, found in leafy greens like kale and broccoli, protect the eyes from harmful blue light emitted by screens and improve visual function.
4. Vitamin CVitamin C, abundant in oranges, strawberries, and bell peppers, supports the health of blood vessels in the eyes and helps reduce the risk of cataracts.
5. Vitamin EVitamin E, found in nuts, seeds, and avocados, is an antioxidant that helps protect the eyes from oxidative damage.
6. AnthocyaninsAnthocyanins, found in berries like blueberries and blackberries, improve night vision and help reduce the progression of myopia.
7. Staying HydratedProper hydration is essential to prevent dry eyes, especially during long hours of screen use. Encourage children to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
8. Consume a Balanced DietA balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins is key to promoting overall eye health and preventing vision problems.

The rise of myopia in children is a concerning trend, especially in the digital age. However, these proactive steps can mitigate the impact of increased screen time and ensure healthier visual development for future generation.