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Toxic Air, Blurred Sight: A Growing Crisis for Children
23 Nov
Summary
- Air pollution causes myopia by reducing daylight exposure.
- Particulate matter irritates eyes, leading to dryness and rubbing.
- Doctors observe myopia developing earlier and progressing faster in children.
Ophthalmologists are identifying toxic urban air as a major contributor to the early onset and rapid progression of myopia in children, alongside screen time. Polluted environments significantly reduce essential daylight exposure, a critical factor for healthy eye development. The scattering of sunlight by smog diminishes the protective benefits of natural light.
Furthermore, airborne pollutants like PM2.5 cause direct eye irritation, dryness, and inflammation. This discomfort leads children to rub their eyes more frequently, potentially triggering abnormal growth patterns associated with nearsightedness. The combination of reduced outdoor activity and increased eye strain creates a detrimental cycle.
Doctors are observing children as young as five showing early signs of myopia, with vision deteriorating rapidly within a year. This trend highlights the urgent need for improved air quality and increased safe outdoor playtime to safeguard children's vision against the escalating threat of pollution-induced eye problems.
