Increased Screen Time Linked to Rising Myopia in Children
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A recent study has revealed that every hour children spend in front of screens increases their likelihood of developing myopia, or shortsightedness, The Guardian reported. Researchers analyzed 45 studies involving over 335,000 participants and found that an additional hour of daily screen time correlates with a 21% higher risk of myopia.
Myopia, which occurs due to an elongated eyeball, is projected to affect about 40% of children and adolescents globally by 2050. While genetics play a role, insufficient outdoor time and prolonged near-focus activities, such as screen use, are significant risk factors.
The study indicated that for children aged 12 to 13 in the UK, screen use increases the risk of myopia to 18% after one hour and 27% after four hours. Experts emphasize the importance of limiting screen time and encouraging outdoor activities to mitigate this growing public health concern, as worsening myopia can lead to serious eye conditions later in life.