Smartphone addiction in kids fuels myopia; Improve their eyesight, try these 4 apps
The prevalence of myopia or near-sightedness among Indian children has been on the rise, becoming a significant concern. This condition causes nearby objects to appear clear, while distant objects become blurry. It is the most common refractive error and is particularly affecting the world's children. Experts predict that by 2050, around half of the global population could be impacted by myopia.
Both genetic and environmental factors play a role in the development of myopia. Typically, it starts to manifest during childhood and adolescence. Older children may express difficulties with their vision, but younger ones might not be able to articulate their vision problems clearly. Nevertheless, changes in behavior or other signs can indicate vision difficulties in younger children.
A report by Times of India highlighted that progressive myopia is increasingly prevalent among school-going children, with near work and prolonged indoor sitting being major contributing factors. Pediatric ophthalmologists in India recommend early eye check-ups for children, especially if their parents wear glasses, as it can aid in the timely detection of any vision issues. The good news is that newer drugs and interventions are available, which can help slow down the progression of myopia.
India, being the most populous country with a significant number of young people, faces a unique challenge in managing myopia cases. In the age of digitalization, screen time for individuals has increased substantially, and children are no exception. The widespread use of smartphones, computers, laptops, and TV screens has become an integral part of their daily routines. Moreover, in recent years, children have become more homebound, engaging in near work, while
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