A comprehensive global analysis has revealed a startling rise in childhood myopia, or short-sightedness, with one in three children now affected. Researchers blame increased screen time and decreased outdoor activities, exacerbated by Covid-19 lockdowns.
The study, published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology, analyzed data from over five million children across 50 countries. Findings show a tripling of myopia cases between 1990 and 2023, reaching 36%. The surge was particularly pronounced after the pandemic.
Asia leads the world in childhood myopia, with 85% of Japanese and 73% of South Korean children affected. China and Russia follow, with over 40% affected. In contrast, Paraguay and Uganda reported the lowest rates, around 1%. The UK, Ireland, and US have rates of approximately 15%.
Researchers warn that myopia will impact millions more children by 2050, potentially affecting over half of teenagers worldwide. Girls and young women are expected to have higher rates due to reduced outdoor activities and earlier onset puberty.
Covid-19 lockdowns accelerated vision deterioration, with emerging evidence suggesting a link between pandemic-related lifestyle changes and worsening eyesight.
Experts urge parents, educators, and policymakers to promote outdoor activities, balanced screen time, and healthy eye care habits to combat this growing global health concern.
The study highlights factors contributing to myopia, including:
- Genetics
- Early education start age (e.g., Singapore and Hong Kong)
- Prolonged screen time
- Limited outdoor activities
