In recent decades, the number of nearsighted people worldwide has increased dramatically. Children and young people in particular are increasingly affected. This trend is not just a medical issue, but a social phenomenon. Many people are wondering what role changing living conditions and the ever-growing influence of digital media play in this and what each individual can do to reduce the risk. The following overview highlights the causes, effects and modern approaches to dealing with myopia, with particular attention to digitalization.
Factors behind the increase in myopia
The rapid rise of myopiamedically known as myopia, is a complex problem. While genetic predisposition continues to play a role, environmental factors are increasingly coming into focus. Studies show that around 20-30 percent of young people in industrialized countries used to be nearsighted, but in some Asian metropolitan areas the figure is now as high as 80 percent. In Europe and North America the values are also significantly higher than a generation ago.
The development of vision during childhood and adolescence seems to be crucial. During this phase, the eye reacts particularly sensitively to environmental stimuli. In particular, a short amount of time outdoors has a negative effect on the growth of the eyeball: daylight and long-distance vision inhibit linear growth and thus the risk of short-sightedness. If this natural stimulus is missing, the risk of the eye becoming “too long” increases. Added to this are school requirements, indoor leisure activities and an overall sedentary lifestyle. All of this noticeably increases the frequency of myopia.
Influence of modern lifestyles and digital media
Why have so many young people struggled with vision problems, especially in recent years? One of the main reasons is the change in lifestyle: Children today spend much more time on close work, whether reading, doing crafts or, above all, on digital devices such as smartphones, tablets and laptops. The digitalization of everyday life means that people are constantly looking at screens, both at school and in their free time.
This is where it becomes clear how important suitable visual aids are: modern glasses, such as those from eyes + more are available, can provide targeted relief for the eyes – for example through specially adapted lenses for everyday digital life. They help to reduce the stress of screen work and support healthy visual development when problems first appear.
This sustained short-distance eye strain, combined with reduced outdoor activities, significantly increases the risk. Research shows that just two hours of additional daylight outdoors per day can provide a significant protective effect. But between online lessons, social media and digital games, there is often no time or motivation for exercise outside.
In addition, there are new habits: Many young people use digital media late into the night, which not only puts strain on their eyes but also disrupts their sleep-wake cycle. Screen time after sunset inhibits the release of melatonin, which can indirectly influence eye development. The ubiquitous use of digital devices is exacerbating the trend towards short-sightedness.
Prevention and innovative treatment options
In view of the worrying increase in myopia, doctors and those affected are increasingly looking for options for prevention and treatment. Staying outdoors has proven to be particularly effective as a preventive measure. Pediatricians and ophthalmologists recommend giving children at least one to two hours of daylight per day to protect their eyes from excessive length growth. Parents and schools play an important role here: regular breaks in the fresh air and consciously planned activities outside the classroom are crucial. Further information on prevention can be found in the article on preventing myopia.
At the same time, sensible screen times should be established. This does not mean completely excluding digital media, but rather using it in a targeted and moderate manner. This also includes taking regular breaks every 20 to 30 minutes and letting your eyes wander from close-up work to the distance. The importance of good lighting in the workplace and “hygiene” when using digital devices are often underestimated.
There are also advances in treatment options. In addition to classic visual aids such as glasses and contact lenses, so-called orthokeratological lenses, which gently shape the eye overnight, provide new impetus. Special ophthalmological preparations, such as low-dose atropine, can slow down the further progression of myopia. In many countries, therapeutic lenses are currently being tested that specifically affect the length of the eyeball.
For children and adolescents with a genetic predisposition or the first signs of vision deterioration, early ophthalmological monitoring is crucial. The earlier changes are recognized and addressed in a targeted manner, the easier it is to prevent permanent damage.