Bengaluru: Ophthalmologists in Bengaluru have raised alarms over the rising cases of myopia (nearsightedness) and dry eye syndrome among children, linking the trend to excessive screen time on tablets, computers, and mobile phones. Experts warn that parents need to take immediate measures to reduce screen exposure for children.

Myopia on the rise post-pandemic

According to Dr Naren Shetty, head of the department of cataract and refractive lens services at Narayana Nethralaya, cases of myopia and dry eyes have surged since the Covid-19 pandemic. “Pre-pandemic, we used to see two to three cases a month among children. Post-pandemic, we are seeing at least 10–16 cases monthly, with some weeks recording five to eight cases,” he said.

The first signs often appear when children struggle to see the classroom board clearly, highlighting the impact of prolonged screen exposure. Myopia is now being considered a global epidemic, and ophthalmologists stress the urgency of early detection and intervention.

Contributing factors beyond screens

Dr Vidhya C, consultant in paediatric ophthalmology, Strabismus, and neuro-ophthalmology at Sankara Eye Hospital, noted that children are spending less time outdoors, increasing the risk of myopia. Additional factors include nutritional deficiencies, Vitamin D deficiency due to lack of sunlight, and extensive reading.

A study by Narayana Nethralaya post-pandemic found that lower dopamine levels in children contributed to the progression of myopia. Children who spent more than two hours outdoors daily had higher dopamine levels, which helped reduce the risk of worsening myopia.

Advances in treatment

Treatment options for myopia and dry eyes have evolved. “Earlier, children were just prescribed glasses, and myopia would continue to increase. Now, we have low-dose atropine drops and lenslet glasses, which help prevent myopia progression,” said Dr Sri Ganesh, chairman and MD of Nethradhama Hospitals.

Doctors also reported a rise in juvenile cataracts and squints among children, often linked to nutritional deficiencies or detected during school screenings. Early treatment is critical, particularly for squints, as children under six can develop binocular vision, unlike adults where treatment is mostly cosmetic.

Recommendations for good eye health

Ophthalmologists recommend the following measures for children:

  • Limit screen time and encourage breaks.
  • Conscious blinking during screen use.
  • Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
  • Maintain a balanced diet rich in eye-friendly nutrients.
  • Ensure at least 30 minutes of daily sunlight exposure.
  • Schedule regular eye checkups for early detection and management.

With digital devices becoming unavoidable for education and entertainment, experts stress that proactive steps can help prevent or slow the progression of myopia and other eye conditions in children.