Wed Sep 25 02:05:57 UTC 2024: ## Myopia on the Rise: Children’s Eyesight Worsening Globally

**London, UK** – A new global study reveals a disturbing trend: children’s eyesight is deteriorating at an alarming rate, with one in three now suffering from short-sightedness, or myopia. The research, published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology, analyzed data from over five million children across 50 countries, highlighting a threefold increase in myopia between 1990 and 2023.

The study points to several factors contributing to this rise, with Covid-19 lockdowns exacerbating the situation. Increased screen time and reduced outdoor activities during these periods are believed to have significantly strained children’s eyes.

East Asia faces the most severe myopia rates, with Japan and South Korea reporting 85% and 73% of their children affected, respectively. However, the trend is global, with even regions like the UK, Ireland, and the US seeing a 15% prevalence.

The researchers emphasize that starting education at a young age, as seen in Singapore and Hong Kong, also contributes to myopia, as children spend more time focusing on books and screens. In contrast, Africa, where schooling starts later, has significantly lower rates.

**What Can Be Done?**

Experts recommend children spend at least two hours outdoors daily, particularly between the ages of seven and nine. This, they believe, can significantly reduce the risk of myopia. While the exact reason for this benefit remains unclear, the researchers suggest that it might be due to the natural sunlight, outdoor exercise, or the longer distances at which children’s eyes focus outdoors.

Parents are advised to take their children for eye tests regularly, especially between the ages of seven and ten, and to be aware of their family history, as myopia is often hereditary.

**Looking Ahead**

This alarming increase in myopia is a cause for concern, as it could lead to a higher prevalence of serious eye conditions in adulthood. The study predicts that by 2050, more than half of teenagers worldwide could be affected by myopia.

The need for action is urgent. Encouraging outdoor activities and promoting regular eye exams are crucial steps towards preventing this global health crisis.

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