Childhood Myopia: Why It Is Increasing and What Parents Can Do

Why is myopia becoming more common in children?

In the last 30 years, childhood myopia has increased significantly worldwide. Some epidemiological studies estimate that by 2050 almost 50% of the world’s population may be myopic.

Less time outdoors

The most important environmental factor identified is reduced exposure to natural light.

Why natural light matters

• Sunlight stimulates dopamine release in the retina.
• Dopamine appears to slow excessive eye growth.
• Many hours spent indoors reduce this protective mechanism.
• Children who spend at least 2 hours per day outdoors have lower myopia risk.

Prolonged near work

Short-distance visual tasks also play an important role.

Common near‑work activities

• Tablets
• Smartphones
• Prolonged reading
• Video games

It is not only the screens themselves, but many hours focusing at very close distances.

Anatomical consequence

• Promotes elongation of the eyeball.
• This elongation is the anatomical basis of myopia.

Genetic factors

Genetics still plays an important role.

• If one parent is myopic, the risk increases.
• If both parents are myopic, the risk increases even more.

However, genetics has not changed in the last 30 years — lifestyle has.

What can parents do?

Evidence‑based recommendations

• At least 2 hours outdoors daily
• Frequent breaks during near‑work or screen use
• Maintain a reading distance greater than 30–40 cm
• Limit prolonged screen use in young children
• Regular eye examinations

Why early myopia detection matters

Myopia is not just a matter of needing glasses. High myopia increases lifetime risk of:

• Retinal detachment
• Glaucoma
• Myopic macular degeneration

Early detection and control of childhood myopia is essential.

Recommended internal links

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