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A new systematic review suggests that each hour spent staring at a screen raises the risk of nearsightedness, also known as myopia. The study, published in JAMA Network Open, found that for every additional hour of daily screen time, the odds of developing myopia increase by 21%.
The Growing Risk of Myopia
Researchers led by Young Kook Kim, an associate professor of ophthalmology at Seoul National University College of Medicine, analyzed data from 45 previous studies, encompassing over 335,000 participants. They found a clear dose-response relationship: the more time spent on screens, the higher the likelihood of developing nearsightedness.
The risk was particularly significant between one and four hours of screen time per day, then increased at a slower rate beyond four hours. Those who spent four or more hours daily on screens were found to have double the risk of developing myopia.
The Role of Environmental Factors
The research team noted that urbanization and lifestyle changes have significantly contributed to the rising prevalence of myopia worldwide. By 2050, nearly half of the world’s population is expected to be nearsighted.
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, myopia causes distant objects to appear blurry while close-up vision remains clear. This condition can interfere with daily tasks such as driving and recognizing faces from a distance.
Screens, Near-Work, and Outdoor Time
Smartphones, tablets, and computers have introduced new forms of near-work activities, which contribute to eye strain and myopia risk. While reducing screen time may help, researchers suggest that simply substituting screens with traditional near-vision tasks like reading or writing may not be sufficient to prevent myopia. Instead, a comprehensive approach involving both minimizing near-work activities and increasing outdoor time is recommended.
“As children increasingly embrace smart devices at younger ages and spend more time on digital screens, there is an urgent need to better understand the association between screen time and myopia,” the researchers emphasized.
A Growing Public Health Concern
The findings underscore the need for parents, educators, and healthcare professionals to be mindful of children’s screen time and encourage outdoor activities. Public health campaigns may also play a crucial role in raising awareness about the risks of excessive screen exposure.
Disclaimer: While this study provides strong evidence linking screen time to myopia, it does not establish direct causation. Other factors, including genetics and environmental influences, also play a role in eye health. If you have concerns about vision problems, consult an eye care professional for personalized advice.
