A recent analysis predicts that one in three children worldwide may need corrective glasses for distance vision within the next two decades. According to this study, the prevalence of myopia, or shortsightedness, could significantly increase by 2050, affecting a third of children and adolescents globally, with East Asia projected to be the worst-affected region.
Key Findings
- Demographic Disparities: Women are more likely to suffer from myopia than men, with nearly half of adolescents and high school students at risk.
- Projected Cases: The analysis estimates that over 740 million cases of myopia could occur globally in the next 25 years.
- Study Details: The findings are based on 276 studies encompassing over 5.4 million participants across 50 countries, showing a steady rise in prevalence from 24.32% in 1990 to 39.91% in 2023.
Contributors to the Myopia Epidemic
Dr. T.S. Surendran, chairman of Sankara Nethralaya, attributes the increase in myopia to various lifestyle and environmental factors, alongside genetic predispositions. Key contributors include:
- Reduced Outdoor Activity: Less time spent outdoors correlates with higher myopia rates.
- Excessive Screen Time: Increased reliance on digital devices has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Disrupted Sleep Patterns: Irregular sleep contributes to vision issues among children.
Signs of Myopia in Children
Parents and teachers can help identify myopia early. Doctors recommend watching for the following warning signs:
- Squinting or Narrowing Eyes: Children may squint to see distant objects.
- Difficulty Following Instructions: Struggling to copy from the blackboard may indicate poor sight.
- Frequent Eye Rubbing: This can be a sign of discomfort or vision issues.
- Holding Objects Close: Children with myopia often hold books or devices too close to their faces.
Healthier Lifestyle Choices
- Limit Screen Time: Reducing time spent on screens can help prevent myopia progression.
- Encourage Outdoor Play: Regular exposure to natural sunlight is crucial for healthy vision.
- Ensure Adequate Sleep: Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule supports overall eye health.
Educational and Public Health Initiatives
V. Mohan from Rajan Eye Care Hospital emphasizes the importance of public health initiatives, such as:
- Eye Care Education: Teaching parents and children about eye health.
- Curriculum Changes: Schools should incorporate more outdoor activities into their programs.
- Balanced Schedules: Creating schedules that limit close-up work and encourage breaks can mitigate myopia risks.
Innovative Treatments
Emerging treatments, such as orthokeratology and low-dose atropine eye drops, are gaining attention for managing myopia progression. R. Venkatesh from Aravind Eye Hospital advocates for the use of specialized glasses, like MyoSmart glasses, to control the condition.
Conclusion
With the anticipated rise in myopia among children and adolescents, proactive measures are essential. By promoting healthier lifestyle habits and implementing educational initiatives, we can help mitigate the impact of this growing public health concern.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What percentage of children worldwide could need corrective glasses by 2050?
A) 10%
B) 20%
C) 33%
D) 50%
Answer: C) 33% - Which region is predicted to be the most affected by myopia?
A) North America
B) Europe
C) East Asia
D) Africa
Answer: C) East Asia - What lifestyle factor is NOT mentioned as contributing to the rise in myopia?
A) Reduced outdoor activity
B) Excessive screen time
C) Increased physical activity
D) Disrupted sleep patterns
Answer: C) Increased physical activity - Which of the following is a warning sign of myopia in children?
A) Reading books at a distance
B) Squinting to see distant objects
C) Playing outdoors frequently
D) Using digital devices minimally
Answer: B) Squinting to see distant objects - What type of glasses is recommended to control myopia progression?
A) Regular prescription glasses
B) MyoSmart glasses
C) Sunglasses
D) Reading glasses
Answer: B) MyoSmart glasses