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A growing global concern is emerging as children's eyesight steadily worsens, with one in three now affected by short-sightedness, or myopia, according to a global analysis. The study shows that the COVID-19 pandemic may have contributed to this trend, as children spent more time indoors on screens and less time engaging in outdoor activities during lockdowns.
The study, published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology, analyzed data from more than five million children and teenagers from 50 countries across six continents. Its findings are alarming: the number of short-sighted children has tripled since 1990, rising to 36 per cent by 2023. This surge has made myopia a pressing global health concern, with projections that it could affect millions more children by 2050.
Myopia On The Rise, Especially In Asia
Myopia is particularly prevalent in Asia, where rates are soaring. Japan reports that 85 per cent of its children are short-sighted, while in South Korea, the figure is 73 per cent. China and Russia also show significant levels, with over 40 per cent of children affected. In contrast, countries like Paraguay and Uganda report some of the lowest levels of myopia, at about 1 per cent. In regions such as the UK, Ireland, and the US, approximately 15 per cent of children are short-sighted.
The study suggests that the pandemic may have played a role in accelerating the rise of myopia, with researchers noting that the increase in cases was "particularly notable" after COVID-19. Lockdowns, which kept millions of children indoors for extended periods, significantly limited their time outdoors, contributing to a rise in vision problems.
Causes Of Myopia: Genetics, Environment, And Lifestyle
While genetics play a role in whether a child develops myopia, environmental factors also significantly contribute. The study points out that in East Asia, where children often start formal education as early as two years old, there is a noticeable link between the early onset of education and myopia rates. Children in places like Singapore and Hong Kong spend more time focusing on books and screens at a young age, which strains the eye muscles and contributes to myopia.
In Africa, where schooling typically begins between the ages of six and eight, myopia rates are far lower—about seven times less common than in Asia. This suggests that the later start to education, combined with more outdoor playtime, may help protect children's eyesight.
Long-Term Projections And Gender Differences
The study warns that by 2050, more than half of all teenagers worldwide could be short-sighted. Myopia typically begins in primary school and worsens until about age 20, when the eyes stop growing. Girls and young women are expected to have higher rates of myopia compared to boys and young men. The study suggests that girls may spend less time outdoors, and because they experience puberty earlier, they often develop short-sightedness at a younger age.
Asia is predicted to continue having the highest rates of myopia, with nearly 69 per cent of children in the region expected to be affected by 2050. However, even developing countries could see rates of around 40%, highlighting the global nature of the issue.
Protecting Children's Eyesight: What Can Be Done?
While myopia cannot be cured, there are steps parents can take to help protect their children’s eyesight and slow its progression. UK eye experts recommend that children spend at least two hours outside each day, especially between the ages of seven and nine. It’s not entirely clear whether the benefit comes from exposure to natural sunlight, exercise, or the fact that children’s eyes are focusing on distant objects outdoors. Regardless, outdoor time is consistently associated with a reduced risk of myopia.
"There is something about being outside that is a real benefit to children," explains Daniel Hardiman-McCartney, a clinical adviser from the UK College of Optometrists. He advises parents to take their children's eye tests between the ages of seven and 10, even if their vision has been checked previously. Regular eye tests can help identify any developing issues early.
Parents should also be aware that myopia often runs in families. If a parent is short-sighted, their children are three times more likely to develop myopia than others. Although myopia cannot be reversed, it can be corrected with glasses or contact lenses.
Special lenses, which are increasingly popular in Asia, can help slow the progression of myopia in young children by encouraging the eye to grow differently. However, these lenses tend to be expensive. In some regions, schools have also introduced glass classrooms that mimic outdoor learning environments, to reduce strain on children's eyes.
Long-Term Implications of Myopia
While myopia can be managed in childhood with corrective lenses, the condition carries long-term risks. High rates of myopia could lead to an increase in serious eye conditions as these children grow older. As the global population of myopic individuals increases, so too will the number of people at risk for conditions such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and cataracts.
The study's findings underscore the importance of early intervention, regular eye exams, and lifestyle changes to help protect children's eyesight. As myopia continues to rise globally, ensuring children spend time outdoors and engage in activities that reduce eye strain could be key to mitigating the impact of this growing public health concern.