Myopic: Myopia is increasing rapidly due to excessive use of smartphones!

Alarm bells have rung for the eyes of children in India. A recent study has made the shocking revelation that more than 13% of school-going children in India suffer from myopia (difficulty in seeing distant objects). This figure has more than doubled in the last decade. Experts believe that the main reason for this is the increasing use of smartphones and other electronic devices by children.

Myopia is a condition in which distant objects appear blurry while nearby objects appear clear. It usually develops in childhood and may worsen with age. Severe myopia can cause retinal problems.

The main researchers of the study believe that excessive screen time and exposure of children to electronic devices at an early age is a major risk factor for myopia. They also said that the problem of myopia has been seen less in children in rural areas (6.1%) compared to urban areas (8.5%). The reason for this can be considered that children in urban areas have easy access to smartphones and other electronic devices.

What is the solution?

To deal with this problem, experts recommend limiting children's screen time. Also, children should be encouraged to spend more time playing outside. Sunlight can play an important role in preventing myopia. Parents should also pay attention to the health of their children's eyes and get their eye tests done regularly.

Cases of myopia are increasing rapidly

not only in India but all over the world. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that by 2050, more than half of the world's population may have myopia. It is a matter of concern that in a developing country like India (where there is a lack of health facilities), increasing cases of myopia can increase the burden on the health system. Therefore, parents and teachers need to regulate children's use of digital devices and be aware of their eye health.