Can lead to eye diseases • Then the risk is greatest • can be prevented
Children and young people who spend a lot of time in front of the screen are at greater risk of suffering from myopia. A new study shows that the risk rises by 21 percent for each extra hour in front of the screen. According to the study, the risk increase is greatest between one to four hours of screen time per day – which does not shock optician Awet Tesfamaria.
– I’m not surprised at all, this is something we have seen in other studies but it becomes more clear now, she says.
For those who use the screen four hours a day, the risk of myopia is also doubled compared to those who limit themselves to one hour. But after four hours, the risk increase is leaning out, according to the researchers.
– The vast majority of children and young people sit with the screen these hours which is a great risk, says Awet Tesfamaria.
Can lead to eye diseases
In recent years, the use of smartphones has increased globally, from 22 percent in 2014 to 69 percent in 2024. The Public Health Authority has subsequently recommended that children and young people should reduce their screen time, which Awet Tesfamaria agrees with.
– As a parent, you need to take this with screen time with your children and dare to set boundaries, she says.
She also believes that myopia can lead to complications such as eye diseases and worse vision in the long run.
– If you get myopia early as a child, there is a higher risk of getting there. Therefore, it is important to brake it in time.
Can be prevented
According to Awet Tesfamaria, there are several ways to prevent or slow down myopia in children and young people.
– The most important thing is to spend time outdoors. Parents can be a little better at getting the children out more, at least two hours each day.
You can also use the 20-20-20 rule. The method means taking a break every 20 minutes and looking six meters away for 20 seconds.
– The breaks cause the eyes to relax because you do not focus as much up close, says Awet Tesfamaria.