What Causes Myopia in Children?

Have you noticed your child squinting to see distant objects or struggling to read the board at school? It could be Myopia (Nearsightedness)—a common vision problem where far-away objects appear blurry. Myopia is becoming more prevalent in children worldwide, but what really causes it? Let’s break it down! 

Myopia: Causes, Risks & Prevention 

1️⃣ Increased Screen Time 📱💻

Children today spend hours glued to digital screens—phones, tablets, TVs, and gaming devices. Excessive screen exposure causes eye strain and overworks the focusing system, leading to myopia. 

How Does Screen Time Affect the Eyes? 

• Reduces blinking rate, leading to dry eyes 

• Forces the eyes to focus at close distances for prolonged periods 

• Increases strain on the eye muscles 

🛑 Prevention Tip: Encourage the 20-20-20 rule—every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break, and look 20 feet away to relax the eyes. 

👓 Find the Best Blue-Light Blocking Glasses for Kids! 

2️⃣ Reduced Outdoor Activity 🌳🏃

Children who spend less time outdoors have a higher risk of developing myopia. Natural daylight helps regulate eye growth, reducing the risk of nearsightedness. 

Why is Outdoor Play Important? 

• Sunlight exposure helps control eye development 

• Reduces constant near-focus stress 

• Encourages distant viewing, balancing eye function 

🌞 Prevention Tip: At least 2 hours of outdoor activity daily can significantly lower myopia risk. Let kids play outside! 

3️⃣ Excessive Near Work 📖✍️ 

Too much reading, writing, or screen use at close distances can lead to myopia. The eyes adapt to short distances, causing blurry vision for far-away objects over time. 

📖 Prevention Tip: Ensure proper lighting and reading posture, and maintain at least 30 cm distance from books and screens. 

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4️⃣ Genetic Factors 🧬👨‍👩‍👧

If one or both parents have myopia, the chances of their child developing it increase significantly. While genetics can’t be changed, early detection and prevention can slow progression. 

🧬 Prevention Tip: Schedule regular eye checkups to monitor vision and detect early signs of myopia. 

💡 Myopia Isn’t Just About Blurry Vision! 

Left unaddressed, myopia can worsen over time, increasing the risk of serious eye conditions like retinal detachment, glaucoma, and cataracts later in life. 

👁️ Think your child might have myopia? Don’t wait! 

📅 Book an eye exam with SA Eye Specialists today!  

📍 Visit us at 27 Woodville Rd, Woodville South a 

📞 Call us at +61 8 8243 0900