The decline in children’s vision is a growing global concern, with one in every three children experiencing myopia or difficulty seeing objects in the distance. A global analysis reveals that the issue is worsening, primarily attributed to increased screen time and reduced outdoor activities due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Rising Prevalence of Myopia
A study published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology investigated over five million children and adolescents from 50 countries across six continents. The researchers found that the prevalence of myopia has doubled from 1990 to 2023, rising to 36%. This increase has been particularly pronounced since the COVID-19 pandemic, with more children spending extended periods of time indoors and engaging in less outdoor activity.
Geographic Variations in Myopia Rates
Asia has the highest rates of myopia, with Japan and South Korea reporting 85% and 73% of children suffering from the condition, respectively. China and Russia also have myopia rates exceeding 40%. In contrast, Paraguay and Uganda have the lowest rates, with approximately 1% of children affected. The United Kingdom, Ireland, and the United States have myopia rates of around 15%.
Factors Contributing to Myopia
Several factors contribute to the development of myopia, including genetic predisposition and early education. Children in countries like Singapore and Hong Kong start school at a young age (two years old), leading to increased time spent focusing on books and screens. This can strain the eye muscles and contribute to the development of myopia. In Africa, where children begin school at six to eight years old, the prevalence of myopia is seven times lower than in Asia.
The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the issue of vision decline, as millions of children were forced to spend extended periods of time indoors. The researchers warn that the pandemic may be linked to an accelerated decline in vision among young adults.
Preventive Measures
To combat myopia, experts recommend that children engage in at least two hours of outdoor activity daily, particularly during the ages of 7 to 9. This can help reduce the risk of developing myopia by encouraging children to focus on distant objects and promoting healthy eye development.
Treatment and Management
Myopia cannot be cured, but it can be corrected through the use of glasses or contact lenses. Specialized lenses can help slow the progression of myopia in young children, although they can be expensive. In Asia, these lenses are widely used, and glass classrooms that mimic outdoor learning environments are becoming increasingly popular.
Concerns for the Future
The high prevalence of myopia raises concerns about the development of abnormal eye diseases in older adults. As the global myopia crisis continues to worsen, it is crucial to address the underlying factors and implement preventive measures to protect the vision of future generations.
Conclusion
The growing crisis of vision decline among children is a global concern that requires immediate attention. By promoting outdoor activity, addressing genetic predispositions, and implementing preventive measures, we can help mitigate the impact of myopia and safeguard the vision of millions of children worldwide.
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