Global health experts are increasingly focused on the prevention and early detection of vision loss, with a growing emphasis on the rising rates of myopia, particularly in children and adolescents. While many causes of vision impairment are treatable or manageable with timely intervention, proactive measures and regular eye exams are crucial for preserving sight.
According to Professor Lauren Ayton, Deputy Director of the Centre for Eye Research at the University of Melbourne, “almost 90% of vision loss can be prevented or treated” through healthy habits, physical activity, and routine ophthalmological evaluations. This underscores the significant impact of lifestyle and preventative care on long-term eye health.
The Rise of Myopia in Children
Experts have identified two key periods when visual problems commonly emerge: childhood, often marked by the onset of myopia, and after age 40, when presbyopia typically develops. Recent decades have witnessed a sustained increase in the prevalence of myopia among children, linked to evolving daily routines and increased screen time.
A study published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology revealed a concerning trend: the proportion of children and adolescents with myopia rose from 24.32% in 1990 to over 35.81% in 2023. Projections indicate this figure could reach 39.8% by 2050. These higher rates are particularly noticeable in urban areas and among teenagers, prompting concern within the medical community.
Dr. Esteban Travelletti, a member of the Ophthalmology division at Hospital de Clínicas de Colombia, explains that while genetic factors can contribute to myopia, environmental elements play a significant role. These include limited time spent outdoors, close-up work, and prolonged use of mobile phones and tablets. These factors, he cautions, can accelerate the progression of the condition.
Dr. Flora Hui, a clinical scientist at the Centre for Eye Research Australia, highlights the benefits of outdoor time for healthy ocular development. “One theory is that sunlight triggers the release of the neurotransmitter dopamine, which is fundamental for healthy eye development,” she notes, adding that playing outdoors encourages distance vision and reduces the risk of myopia.
Practical Steps for Protecting Vision
To mitigate the risks associated with increased screen time and indoor activities, experts recommend practical strategies such as the 20-20-20 rule, promoted by specialists at the Mayo Clinic. This involves looking away from screens every 20 minutes and focusing on an object approximately six meters away for 20 seconds to reduce eye strain. The American Academy of Ophthalmology also emphasizes limiting screen time and incorporating regular visual breaks.
Presbyopia, the age-related loss of the eye’s ability to focus on nearby objects, typically manifests after age 40 due to decreased flexibility of the lens. Data from the Cleveland Clinic indicate that approximately 1.8 billion people worldwide were affected by presbyopia in 2015, with an estimated increase to 2.1 billion by 2030. Common symptoms include blurred near vision, headaches, and eye fatigue.
Regarding cataracts and glaucoma, physicians emphasize the importance of regular check-ups for early detection and to slow the progression of these diseases. Key recommendations include avoiding smoking, using ocular sun protection, and frequent ophthalmological consultations, particularly for older adults or individuals with a family history of these conditions.
A Three-Pillar Approach to Eye Health
Experts consistently recommend a three-pronged approach to preserving vision: limiting screen time, prioritizing outdoor activities, and attending regular eye exams. As Professor Ayton emphasizes, prevention and visual education from an early age are essential for reducing the impact of eye diseases on the population.
– Maintaining good vision requires a proactive approach, combining lifestyle adjustments with consistent professional care. By understanding the risk factors and adopting preventative measures, individuals can significantly improve their chances of preserving healthy eyesight throughout their lives.
