Myopia in children: causes, symptoms, and prevention strategies
Too much screen time can also contribute towards Myopia
Image: Pexels/Karolina Grabowska
Myopia, or short-sightedness, is rising rapidly across the globe. It currently affects up to a third of the world’s population and could reach 50% by 2050 due to urban lifestyles, high screen time, and reduced outdoor activity.
“Poor vision has a tremendous negative impact on a child’s ability to learn,” said Dr Helga Abrahamse-Pillay, president of the South African Society for Paediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus (SASPOS).
“A child struggling to see the board, follow sports, or recognise people from a distance may fall behind educationally, socially and behaviourally.”
Dr Ed Anderson, president of the South African Society for Cataract and Refractive Surgery (SASCRS) explained children are especially at risk, with Myopia typically developing during childhood and can worsen until around age 20.
“If one or both parents are nearsighted, there is an increased chance their children will be nearsighted,” Anderson said.
Warning signs include:
Holding books very close
Sitting near the TV
Squinting or rubbing eyes
Avoiding sports
Behavioural changes at school
Myopia is caused when the eye grows too long, making distant objects appear blurry. While spectacles and contact lenses remain the most common corrective options, prevention is key.
Spending over 14 hours a week outdoors can reduce the risk by 30%. Strategies to slow progression include:
Reducing screen and near-work time
Low-dose Atropine eye drops
Special lenses and overnight contact lenses
Emerging therapies like red light treatment and smart device interventions
“Testing is vital, if your child struggles to see the board or the TV, get their eyes checked without delay," Anderson concluded.
Weekend Argus