Myopia is a type of refractive error in which the person is not able to focus the distance objects clearly. The increasing incidence of myopia in children has become like a pandemic and is a major health concern among the parents.

Increasing myopia rates have been influenced by many factors. Besides the predisposing familial factors: 

genetic mutation

poor lifestyle

poor nutrition 

and increased screen time seem to be causative factors. 

Poor sun exposure: 

Rapid growth of technology has compromised the childhood as more and more children are now interested in mobile and tablets. The time spent by children outdoors has considerably reduced and so the amount of sun exposure. We all know sunlight is a very good source of vitamin D. Deficiency of Vitamin D plays an independent risk factor for eyeball elongation and development of myopia. Even few studies have shown that 70% of children with myopia were found to have low levels of vitamin D.

Increased screen use:

The long hours of harmful blue radiation exposure from screen also disturbs tear film. Damaged tear film also contributes to refractive errors which come as surprise to parents in an otherwise healthy child.

Poor nutrition:

 Balanced and nutritious diet is not only important for good eyesight but for total development of the body. Seasonal vegetables and fruits must be given to children. Along with these milk and dry fruits complete a healthy diet. Junk foods must be discouraged.

Other eye conditions:

Many eye conditions like allergy, blepharitis, dry eye can also influence myopia. Premature babies are at higher risk of developing myopia in later life. A strong family history of myopia predisposes the child for this.

Take home message for parents:

The myopia awareness initiative has been started with an aim to educate the parents. The parents must get their child screened at the age of 3-4 years or when the child has started identifying numbers or letters. If there is any risk factor like I have discussed then the child needs to come early. Good healthy environment with good regular eye care is what all is required to fight against myopia and to save the future generation.

Dr.Lakshmi kuniyal 

Senior Eye consultant