Myopia Rising: Screen Time Blamed

A growing number of children are developing myopia, with ophthalmologists highlighting the connection to increased screen time. Cases like an eight-year-old requiring spectacles after two years of tablet use are becoming common in Indian households. Experts observe that prolonged focus on near objects, common during extensive use of smartphones, tablets, and laptops, leads to reduced blinking, digital eye strain, and less time spent outdoors.

During Myopia Awareness Week, specialists are emphasizing the need for balanced screen habits, not outright restriction, to support healthy vision. Blurred distance vision can be an early indicator of excessive screen engagement. Parents are advised to encourage regular breaks from devices, ensure children spend ample time outdoors, and maintain a proper viewing distance to mitigate these vision concerns.