Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a growing concern for school-aged children in Asia. Myopia is a common vision disorder where objects far away are blurry or out of focus, however things close are in focus. This is a problem in the classroom as students struggle to read what is on the board or the information presented by their teachers.
In the past 30 years, it has been noted that the cases of myopia in younger children have been on the rise. In some places in Asia the number of cases is very high (see research source linked below).
One theory is related to the amount of screentime children use daily. Further research is being done, but according to the study major changes are being seen when screen/indoor time is reduced, and outdoor play is increased.
Signs of myopia in children often include:
Difficulty seeing objects in the distance, such as writing on the whiteboard.
Frequent squinting
Headaches
Eye rubbing
If you think your child might be nearsighted, it is important to schedule an eye exam with an ophthalmologist (eye doctor). Early detection and treatment of myopia can help prevent vision problems later in life.
Here are some tips to help protect your child's vision and prevent myopia:
Limit screen time: School-aged children should limit screen time to a maximum of 2 hours per day.
Increase outdoor activity: Natural sunlight helps with healthy eye development. Encourage your child to play outdoors for at least 2 hours daily.
Schedule regular eye checkups with an ophthalmologist.
Make sure your child gets enough vitamins A, C, and E. Include carrots, spinach, blueberries, and salmon in their diet for healthy eyes.
By implementing these simple steps, we can help protect your child's vision and prevent the development of myopia. Early detection and proper management are crucial for maintaining your child's good eye health.
Source:Â