The British Journal of Ophthalmology has published a startling study showing how children’s eyesight is gradually deteriorating worldwide, with one in three being short-sighted or unable to see objects well in the distance. The report has once again emphasised the importance of taking additional care of our children’s eyesight, as Myopia will affect millions of children worldwide by 2050.
What the study says
The study found that during Covid lockdowns, because kids spent more time indoors and had significantly more screen time, their eyesight suffered greatly.During the lockdown period, their ocular muscles were stressed, resulting in Myopia. The study also revealed that, between 1990 and 2023, the percentage of people who are short-sighted (Myopia) grew thrice to 36%.
Beginning in the early stages, Myopia often worsens until the eye stops developing, which happens around age 20. This implies that youngsters who spend more time with their eyes focused on screens, books and indoor in their early years, have a higher tendency to develop eye problems.
According to the study, girls and young women are at a higher risk as compared to boys and young men, because they spend more time in school and at home as they get older. Girls’ growth and development, including puberty, begin earlier, which implies they develop short-sightedness at a younger age.
According to the study, Asia is anticipated to have the highest levels of short-sightedness among all continents by 2050, with roughly 69% of Asians at risk of moderate Myopia.
Both Genetics & Environmental factors play an Important role in progression of Myopia in children. developing this disorder. If the parents have Myopia, the children are at a significantly higer risk. Similarly if the child is mostly indoor and has lot of screentime, the risk is equally high.
Identifying early symptoms in children
To safeguard children’s eyes, it’s critical to recognise the warning indications of Myopia.
1. Squinting: Those kids who have Myopia will find it challenging to read properly. Such Children squint to see distant objects more clearly.
2. Sitting Close to Screens: This is another indication you may look for. A child consistently sitting close to the TV, computer, or phone might indicate difficulty seeing things from a distance.
3. Holding Books Close: Children holding books very close to their faces can signify nearsightedness.
4. Blurry Vision: Kids who find it difficult to see the blackboard clearly often suffer from Myopia.
5. Frequent Headaches: Those children who often complain of headaches should get their eyesight checked as this might be due to eye strain from trying to focus on distant objects
6. Rubbing Eyes Frequently: This may indicate eye fatigue or discomfort due to poor vision.
Tips to Protect Your Child’s Eyesight
1. Encourage Outdoor Activities: Parents must encourage their children to spend at least two hours outdoors daily. This is especially important for kids between 5 and 15, as it lowers the risk of developing Myopia (short-sightedness).
2. Regular Eye Exams: Parents should regularly take their children for eye tests every 6 -9 months, so problems if any can be identified at an early stage. Early detection is key to prevent progression of Myopia.
3. Understanding Family History: Myopia often runs in families. As per various studies, if you are short-sighted, your child is three times more likely to develop Myopia. Please keep a close watch on their eye health.
4. Use of Corrective Lenses: While Myopia cannot be cured, it can be corrected with glasses or contact lenses, allowing your child to see clearly. It is, therefore important for kids suffering from Myopia to use corrective lenses regularly.
5. Limit Screen Time: Parents and teachers should encourage kids to take breaks from screens and activities like reading or using digital devices. They should be taught the 20-20-20 rule (looking at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes) to reduce eye strain.
7. Ensure Proper Lighting: It is crucial to ensure that the children read or study in adequate lighting to avoid straining their eyes. Schools should ensure that classrooms are well-lit, as should the children’s study rooms in homes.
8. Promote a Balanced Diet: Children should be given a diet rich in Vitamins A, C, and E, along with omega-3 fatty acids, to promote their eye health. They should consume adequate leafy vegetables and fruits to promote their growth.
In conclusion, Myopia affects 1 in 4 children in India, making it a growing concern for parents and educators alike. With more and more children now suffering from this disorder, it is crucial to raise greater awareness about its impact on children’s eye health. Regular eye check-ups should be made mandatory in every school, ensuring early detection and proper management. By taking preventive measures and promoting better eye care practices, we can help safeguard the vision of our future generations.
Dr. Jay Goyal, Eye Surgeon, LASIK, Retina Specialist, and Director at Surya Eye Hospital, Mumbai
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