Eyes on the Screen
Is there a link between using digital devices and nearsightedness?
Did you know that by 2050, nearly half of the world's population could be dealing with myopia (nearsightedness)? This trend is starting younger than ever, especially in kids growing up in screen-heavy, indoor environments.
Research is increasingly pointing to digital screens as a major contributor. Dr. Peter Lin recently discussed the results of a recent meta-analysis of 45 studies on CBC Radio. A meta-analysis combines the results from multiple studies on the same topic to answer specific research questions.
What the Research Tells Us:
Screen time risks:
Between 1-4 hours there is a 21% high risk of developing myopia.
Beyond 4 hours, the risk continues to increase, but at a slower rate.
Kids are the most vulnerable: With young children spending more time on screens, they’re at higher risk for early-onset myopia.
This growing body of evidence highlights the impact of modern technology, especially among children who are using smartphones, tablets, and computers at younger ages. While the exact relationship between screen time and myopia remains complex, the results are clear: prolonged digital screen use is contributing to the global rise in myopia. We're also spending more time indoors, missing out on the protective benefits of natural sunlight.
What You Can Do:
Limit screen time: Try to keep it under 1 hour a day, especially for young kids.
Get outdoors: Encourage outdoor play and activities to give eyes a break and reduce the risk.
As the world goes digital, the rise in myopia is becoming a serious concern. As the digital age progresses, it's more important than ever to balance our screen habits with time spent outdoors to combat this growing concern.
Book an appointment with a member of our team or check out Myopace to learn more about myopia management today!
