A leading British eye surgeon notes a sharp rise in myopia among people born between 1997 and 2012. The surge in visual impairment is closely linked to how screens and devices dominate daily life. This trend is observed across many parts of the world, including the United Kingdom and other developed nations.
In recent decades, the proportion of teens and young adults affected by myopia has climbed noticeably. Experts attribute much of this rise to lifestyle shifts, especially reduced outdoor activity and heavy use of gadgets. When youngsters spend more time indoors and prioritize screens, the risk of developing nearsightedness appears to increase. This observation aligns with reports from medical professionals who monitor myopia patterns across age groups and regions.
Sunlight plays a crucial role in eye development. Exposure to bright outdoor light stimulates the retina to release dopamine, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate eye growth. Higher dopamine levels can slow the overgrowth of the eyeball, which is a key factor in the progression of myopia. Outdoor time, particularly in daylight, may therefore act as a protective factor for children and adolescents.
Another significant contributor to the looming myopia epidemic is the growing amount of time spent with screens held close to the face. Reading and working on handheld devices requires sustained, near-field focus. This can lead to reduced blinking and tear film instability, resulting in dry eye symptoms and blurred vision. Over time, such visual strain may influence refractive development and the emergence of myopia in young people.
Experts emphasize the importance of balanced daily routines. Encouraging regular outdoor play, limiting continuous screen time, and taking routine breaks from close-up tasks can help support eye health. Parents and caregivers are urged to create environments that promote safe viewing habits, adequate lighting, and ergonomic viewing distances. The goal is to reduce near-work strain while supporting healthy eye development during childhood and adolescence.
Historically, research on how long children can safely use smartphones without affecting eyesight has focused on patterns of screen exposure, blink rate, and visual comfort. Modern guidance combines evidence from longitudinal studies, clinical observations, and evolving technology usage to offer practical recommendations for families navigating the digital age.