Spending even an hour daily on smartphones or tablets may significantly increase the risk of nearsightedness, or myopia, according to a new study. Researchers found that the odds of developing myopia rise by 21% for each additional hour of screen exposure, highlighting growing concerns over prolonged digital device usage.
Myopia Cases Are on the Rise
The study, published in JAMA Network Open, analyzed data from 45 separate investigations involving more than 335,000 individuals ranging from toddlers to young adults. The findings reinforce concerns that increasing reliance on screens is fueling a surge in nearsightedness cases worldwide.
The dose-response pattern observed in the research suggested a sharp rise in risk between one to four hours of screen time daily, after which the increase was more gradual. However, the study also found no significant correlation between myopia risk and exposure below one hour per day.
“These findings provide valuable insights for researchers and clinicians working on the myopia epidemic,” the authors noted.
A Growing Concern for Parents, Teachers, and Health Experts
With digital screens deeply integrated into education and entertainment, concerns over their long-term impact are mounting. Parents, teachers, and health experts continue to debate the trade-off between technology’s benefits and its drawbacks.
A recent discussion among industry experts in India highlighted the dilemma faced by students, parents, and educators—especially during exam periods when screen time often spikes. The balance between educational use and excessive exposure remains a challenge.
Beyond the Eyes: Broader Health Impacts of Screen Time
The risks of excessive screen time aren’t just limited to eyesight. Extended exposure to digital screens has been linked to several other health concerns:
- Cognitive Function Decline: Prolonged screen time is associated with reduced attention spans and cognitive overload.
- Postural Issues: Many users sit in uncomfortable positions while using screens, leading to spine and back problems.
- Obesity and Lifestyle Disorders: A sedentary lifestyle resulting from increased screen time has been linked to weight gain and metabolic issues.
Can There Be a Safe Limit for Screen Time?
While the study suggests that limiting screen exposure to under an hour per day could be a potential safety threshold, real-world applications remain challenging. For students, remote workers, and entertainment consumers, reducing screen time may not always be feasible.
However, experts suggest adopting measures such as:
| Recommendation | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Following the 20-20-20 rule (looking 20 feet away every 20 minutes for 20 seconds) | Reduces eye strain |
| Increasing outdoor activities | Helps prevent myopia progression |
| Adjusting screen brightness and font size | Lessens eye fatigue |
| Maintaining proper posture while using devices | Prevents musculoskeletal issues |
With myopia rates soaring globally, particularly among younger demographics, researchers emphasize the need for proactive measures. Whether through screen time restrictions, awareness campaigns, or ergonomic improvements, tackling digital eye strain is becoming a growing public health priority.
