Increase in Poor Eyesight Among Children Over Past 10 Years: AIIMS

Increase in Poor Eyesight Among Children Over Past 10 Years: AIIMS

Increase in Poor Eyesight Among Children Over Past 10 Years: AIIMS

Amidst the digital age, the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi raises an alarming concern—poor eyesight in children has surged over the past decade. The percentage of children grappling with eyesight issues has escalated from 13-15% to a staggering 20-25% in the last 10 years, indicating a substantial rise in visual problems among the younger generation.

Early Onset of Eyesight Deterioration

Dr. Rohit Saxena, a professor of ophthalmology and pediatrics at RP Center, AIIMS, notes a concerning shift in trends. In earlier times, only 3-4% of children needed spectacles, typically around the ages of 10-12. However, the current scenario reveals a shift, with children as young as 6-7 years experiencing eyesight deterioration, requiring corrective measures such as glasses.

Tech Overload Impacting Young Eyes

The pervasive use of gadgets like mobile phones and tablets emerges as a significant culprit behind the rising prevalence of myopia and vision defects, affecting even children under 4 years of age. Dr. Saxena emphasizes the role of continuous gadget usage, highlighting a change in parental attitudes. He notes that before the pandemic, parents expressed concerns about television hours, but now, they acknowledge only 2 hours of phone usage, indicating a shift in mindset that adversely affects children’s eyesight.

Regional and Rural Concerns

The issue extends beyond urban areas, with Dr. Saxena revealing that rural regions have witnessed a notable increase in visual impairment among children. In the last decade, the prevalence has risen from 3-4% to 7-8%, indicating a shift in lifestyle and gadget use even in traditionally rural settings. This challenges the notion that visual impairment was less common in rural areas, emphasizing the pervasive impact of technology.

Addressing the Digital Dilemma: Recommendations for Parents

To mitigate the impact of excessive screen time, Dr. Saxena suggests parents encourage children to study on computers or laptops, maintaining a distance equal to one hand. For online learning, breaks every half hour are recommended. Additionally, studying near windows or in open spaces, such as balconies or terraces, can provide a reprieve for young eyes. Dr. Saxena stresses the importance of digital literacy and raising awareness among parents about the potential harm excessive gadget use can cause to their children’s eyesight.