One in Three Children Short Sighted After Covid Lockdowns: British Journal of Ophthalmology - Video

Children's eyesight is worsening globally, with one in three now suffering from short-sightedness, or myopia, according to a new study published in British Journal of Ophthalmology. The researchers reviewed data from over five million children and teens across 50 countries on six continents.

The highest rates are in Asia - 85% of children in Japan and 73% in South Korea are short-sighted with more than 40% affected in China and Russia.

The report found that global myopia rates tripled from 1990 to 2023, now affecting 36% of children, with a significant spike after the pandemic. Myopia typically begins in primary school and worsens until the eye stops growing, around age 20.

While genetics contribute to eye health, other factors like environmental factors, especially in East Asia, also increase the risk of myopia. In places like Singapore and Hong Kong, children spend more time focusing on books and screens, which strains their eye muscles, contributing to the condition.

During Covid lockdowns worldwide, when millions had to stay indoors for lengthy periods, children and teenagers' eyesight took a hit. "Emerging evidence suggests a potential association between the pandemic and accelerated vision deterioration among young adults," the researchers write.

By 2050, myopia could affect more than half of the world's teenagers. The study also indicated that girls and young women may be more vulnerable, as they typically spend less time outdoors during school years.

To help prevent myopia, researchers recommend that children spend at least two hours outdoors daily, especially between the ages of seven and nine.

Reference: Liang J, Pu Y, Chen J, et al Global prevalence, trend and projection of myopia in children and adolescents from 1990 to 2050: a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis. British Journal of Ophthalmology Published Online First: 24 September 2024. doi: 10.1136/bjo-2024-325427