THE increasing duration of screen time among young people is a significant public health concern that warrants immediate attention. Research indicates that children and adolescents spend an average of over seven hours in front of screens every day, a trend exacerbated by remote learning and increased digital entertainment.

This excessive exposure has been linked to a surge in chronic eye diseases, particularly myopia (near-sightedness), which is projected to affect 50 per cent of the global population by 2050 if current trends continue.

A study by the American Academy of Ophthalmology found that over 60pc of children experience symptoms of digital eye strain, which include discomfort, blurred vision and headaches. This con-dition not only impacts daily functioning, but may also have long-term consequences for eye health.

Several world regions are witnessing alarming rates of myopia among the young, with prevalence rates exceeding 80pc in urban areas.

To address this issue, it is essential for parents, educators and policymakers to promote balanced screen time habits. Recommendations include implementing the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, looking at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Encouraging outdoor activities can further mitigate the risk of developing myopia.

As society continues to embrace digital technology, it is rather imperative to recognise the potential health risks associated with high screen time in young people. By fostering awareness and promoting healthier habits, stakeholders can surely work towards safeguarding the eyesight of future generations.

Kainat Ahmed
Karachi

Published in Dawn, October 29th, 2024