•Dr Priscilia Imade
In today’s world, digital screens are everywhere, in schools, homes, offices and even in children’s toys. While technology has brought many benefits, one of its unintended consequences is the rising rate of myopia (nearsightedness), particularly among children and young adults.
LINK BETWEEN SCREEN TIME AND MYOPIA
Myopia occurs when the eye grows too long from front to back or the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of on it. This results in blurred distance vision.
Excessive screen time, especially at a close range, forces the eyes to focus up close for prolonged periods. Over time, this contributes to eye strain, fatigue and more importantly, encourages elongation of the eyeball, a key feature in the development and progression of myopia.
WHY SCREEN TIME IS A RISK FACTOR
• Prolonged Near Work: Reading, writing, and using digital devices for long hours increases accommodative stress on the eye muscles.
• Reduced Outdoor Time: Children glued to screens spend less time outdoors. Natural light and distant viewing outdoors help protect against myopia.
• Blue Light Exposure: Although still being studied, blue light from screens may affect sleep cycles and contribute to eye strain.
• Poor Posture and Lighting: Leaning too close to screens, reading in dim light and poor ergonomics increase visual fatigue and may worsen myopia risk.
STATISTICS
• In Nigeria and other developing countries, cases of myopia in school-aged children are rising, particularly in urban centers.
• Global studies predict that by 2050, nearly 50% of the world’s population will be myopic with screen time and indoor lifestyles as major contributors.
• Children who spend more than 2-3 hours per day on screens are significantly more likely to develop myopia before the age of 10.
SIGNS THAT SCREEN TIME MAY BE AFFECTING VISION
• Squinting at distant objects (TV, whiteboard)
• Frequent eye rubbing or blinking
• Headaches after screen use
• Sitting very close to screens
• Complaints of blurry vision or tired eyes
WHAT PARENTS, SCHOOLS AND EMPLOYERS CAN DO
1. Encourage the 20-20-20 Rule
Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away.
2. Promote Outdoor Activity
Ensure children spend at least 2 hours daily outdoors because natural light helps delay myopia onset.
3. Limit Recreational Screen Time
Children under 5 should have minimal screen exposure. School-aged children should be guided to balance screen use with play and rest.
4. Regular Eye Checks
Early eye examination can catch signs of digital eye strain and myopia before they become severe.
5. Use Proper Ergonomics
Maintain a screen distance of 18–24 inches, use anti-glare screens and ensure good lighting while using devices.
Finally, screen time is now a part of modern life, but it does not have to come at the cost of our vision. By being mindful of how we use screens and taking simple preventive steps, we can reduce the risk of myopia and protect the eye health of our children, students and workers.
At Modern Eye Clinic, we advocate for digital wellness and provide screening, education, and vision care services to help you and your family enjoy technology, without compromising your sight.
*Dr Priscilia Imade is CEO, Modern Eye Clinic, Lagos. E-mail: moderneyecliniclagos@gmail.com
Another edition of the column returns on Monday in The Frontier.
