A recent study has found that more than one in three children and teenagers globally are shortsighted, a condition known as myopia. Experts are concerned about the dramatic increase in myopia over the last 30 years, with the number of cases expected to top 740 million by 2050.
The study highlights a correlation between screen time and myopia, with children who spend long periods on computers or smart devices at greater risk. Conversely, spending more time outdoors may help prevent the condition. Girls and those living in urban areas are more likely to develop myopia.
Researchers emphasized the need for increased physical activity and decreased screen time among children and teenagers to combat the rising prevalence of myopia. The Covid-19 pandemic may have accelerated this trend, with evidence suggesting a link between the pandemic and vision deterioration in young adults.
While the study had limitations due to variations in study design and methodology, the researchers believe their estimates of myopia prevalence are close to being accurate. They stress the importance of recognizing myopia as a potential global health burden in the future and urge policymakers to prioritize preventive efforts and healthcare policies to address this growing issue.
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