The Link Between Screen Time and Myopia: What you need to Know

The impact of screen time on our eyesight is becoming a big area of interest in the eyecare world. A recent study by Zhiqiang Zong and team looked at how screen time affects myopia, or nearsightedness, in kids and teens.

What Was the Study About?

The researchers looked at the data from 19 different studies to see if spending a lot of time on screens—like computers, TVs, and smartphones—was linked to developing myopia.

What Did They Find?

1. A significant correlation was found between screen time and myopia. Kids and teens who spent more time on screens were more likely to have myopia.
2. Time of exposure matters. If you increase your screen time by just one hour a day, it raises the risk of myopia, with an increase of about 7% in risk.
3. The study found that screen time on computers had the strongest association with myopia compared to TVs and smartphones.

What Does This Mean for You?

If you’re spending a lot of time on screens, especially computers, taking breaks and limiting your screen time is recommended.

Remember, taking care of your eyes is crucial, and being mindful of how much time you spend on screens can make a difference. If you have any concerns about your eyesight or screen time, you can visit our office, 2020 Eyemax, in Lexington, Kentucky.  Please call 859-787-0936 to book an appointment today.