A worrying trend is emerging in the world of childhood vision: myopia, or short-sightedness, is rapidly increasing, impacting a significant portion of children and adolescents. A comprehensive study, analyzing data from 276 studies and over 7 million participants across 50 countries, has revealed that approximately one-third of children and teens worldwide are now short-sighted. This figure is projected to reach a staggering 740 million by the year 2050.
The study, conducted by researchers at Sun Yat-Sen University in China, highlighted a dramatic surge in myopia prevalence over the past few decades. The rate climbed from 24% between 1990 and 2000 to 36% between 2020 and 2023. The authors emphasized the significant impact of myopia on global health, stating that “the global prevalence of childhood myopia is substantial, affecting approximately one-third of children and adolescents.”
Further analysis revealed notable demographic disparities. East Asian populations and those living in urban areas were significantly more affected by myopia than other groups. Additionally, females and adolescents exhibited higher rates of short-sightedness. The study suggests that these disparities may be linked to factors such as educational practices, lifestyle choices, and environmental influences.
The researchers observed a strong correlation between the duration of formal education and the prevalence of myopia, particularly in East Asian countries. This suggests that the early implementation of education systems in these regions may contribute to the higher rates of myopia. Conversely, African countries, with lower literacy rates and delayed formal education, experienced a lower prevalence of short-sightedness.
While the exact cause of this global myopia epidemic is complex, the study points to a significant role of increased screen time and reduced outdoor activity. The authors strongly advise parents and educators to encourage more physical activity and limit screen time for children and teens, potentially mitigating the risk of myopia development.
Understanding the factors influencing this alarming trend is crucial for developing effective interventions and public health strategies. Further research is needed to delve deeper into the complex interplay of environmental, genetic, and lifestyle factors contributing to the rise of myopia. Early detection and management of myopia are essential to prevent long-term vision problems and ensure healthy vision for future generations.
