I AM particularly passionate about preventing children and teenagers becoming myopic (short sighted). There is compelling evidence excessive close work is a major factor in the development of myopia. A recent study has found the average teenager now spends 6.5 hours per day using some form of computer screen. Those 6.5 hours do not include time spent in class where lessons are now frequently computer based. Is it any wonder so many of this generation of youngsters are becoming myopic?
Australian researchers found getting our youngsters outside playing was a significant factor in reducing the risk of developing myopia. Limiting time spent on near vision tasks e.g. smartphone use and reading was also beneficial.