More outdoor time, less screen use: preventing childhood myopia
According to international studies, one in three children worldwide suffers from myopia. Research indicates that the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated vision problems, leading to nearly a threefold increase in the number of myopia cases. In the Republic of Moldova, doctors are also reporting a rise in myopia cases, attributed to factors such as a sedentary lifestyle, increased exposure to digital devices, and certain dietary deficiencies.
Specialists warn that in the coming decades, the number of people dependent on eyeglasses could increase dramatically, reaching approximately five billion, meaning that half of the world's population would require them.
"We do not have statistics on the prevalence of myopia in the Republic of Moldova, but we do have conclusive data indicating that the incidence of myopia is increasing, particularly among children and adolescents. For this reason, measures are being implemented to control myopia and halt its progression," said pediatric ophthalmologist Irina Rotaru on the show "Dimineata cu Radio Moldova".
"The first factor contributing to the progression of myopia is children's exposure to digital screens from an early age, especially small screens. Another factor is the lack of mobility among children, their sedentary lifestyles, and the amount of time they spend indoors. Additionally, deficiencies in certain microelements, vitamins, and nutrients have been observed in children with myopia. These are the three primary contributors to the development and progression of myopia, aside from the genetic factor present in parents or grandparents," the doctor explained.
Parents are advised to limit their children’s screen time to no more than 1 hour a day until age 10, and to 1.5 hours daily for children aged 10 to 18. At the same time, specialists recommend maximizing outdoor activities.
"As the body grows, the eyeball also grows in length. The elongation of the posterior segment of the eyeball leads to an increase in myopia. During this growth period, exposure to screens, particularly smaller ones, should be limited. Parents can also encourage as many outdoor walks as possible and exposure to natural light. Natural sunlight helps the body produce vitamin D, a neurotransmitter produced when a child is in natural light. Therefore, sedentary children, especially those living in the northern hemisphere or in darker environments, tend to develop myopia more frequently. Parents should also ensure their children have a sufficient intake of essential nutrients and vitamins. Management of myopia through medication or optical solutions should be conducted by an ophthalmologist", Dr Rotaru said.
Myopia in children can also be effectively managed through modern, personalized methods. Currently, there are three primary approaches to halting myopia progression.
"First and foremost, there are night lenses, a revolutionary method being applied globally. These lenses are custom-made for each eye and reshape the corneal surface while the child sleeps. When removed in the morning, vision is nearly perfect, and myopia progression can be stabilized. The second method involves correction with specialized peripheral glasses. These not only provide clear vision but also help prevent the progression of myopia, prescribed based on specific requirements. The third method uses atropine drops, prepared in individualized dosages. It is essential to remember that all treatments should be assessed by a specialist according to each child's needs," explained Irina Rotaru.
Using night lenses can continue as long as myopia is progressing. In some children, myopia may increase over two to three years, while in others, it may persist for five to six years, she added.
"The use of night lenses can be stopped once myopia stagnation is observed, but treatment must be tailored to the individual. Depending on the case, some children may wear them for several years or until they reach adulthood. Others may opt to use them indefinitely as an alternative to laser vision correction surgery, which is available in adulthood," concluded Dr. Irina Rotaru.
