Mobile Device Use Doubles Myopia in Kids: Eye Health Alert!

MADRID (EUROPA PRESS) – Dr. Francisco Javier Fernández Perianes, an ophthalmologist at the Quirónsalud Clideba Hospital in Badajoz, has issued a warning that the use of mobile devices has nearly doubled the incidence of myopia among minors. He also noted that these devices negatively affect other aspects of their health, including sleep, socialization, and overall development.

Dr. Fernández Perianes observed a significant increase, almost doubling, in cases of myopia in young people. He attributes this surge to the excessive brightness emitted by devices and their proximity to the user’s eyes.

The expert pointed out that children who frequently use mobile devices often begin to experience nearsightedness by the age of six or seven. This condition arises from prolonged close-up vision, preventing the eye from developing optimally for clear distance vision.

Insufficient development of the visual system can lead to symptoms such as redness, dry eyes, blurry vision, headaches, and eyelid irritation.

“It’s important to realize that mobiles emit intense light that can overwhelm a still-developing eye, leading to a significantly higher risk of myopia due to the close distance of the light source,” he emphasized.

According to Fernández Perianes, the only effective way to prevent these issues is to either prohibit or significantly restrict minors’ use of mobile devices. This stance is supported by the World Health Organization (WHO) and various ophthalmological and pediatric societies.

While recommendations vary by age and usage duration, experts agree that screen time should be nonexistent during the first three years of life. For older children, reducing screen time decreases the likelihood of developing eye problems.

“Up to the age of 16, it is crucial to ensure responsible usage and set time limits, preferably using analog or non-internet-connected devices. This helps mitigate the attachment to screens, which can otherwise exacerbate eye damage,” he added.

When Symptoms Appear

If any symptoms occur, Dr. Fernández Perianes advises visiting an ophthalmologist to check for any refractive errors. He also recommends using artificial tears for eye lubrication, ensuring proper lighting, and avoiding glare.

He further emphasized that the only way to correct this condition is through the use of glasses, as surgical options cannot be considered until the eye has fully developed, usually around the age of 20 or 21.

“Hopefully, we will all become aware that young children should not use devices if we want to avoid refractive issues later on, many of which can only be corrected through surgery,” he concluded.