World myopia (partial vision loss) is facing an increasing threat. A new study shows that by 2050, more than 740 million children and teens will have trouble seeing distant objects.

This prediction is based on a global survey of data from 50 different countries from 2023. According to the survey in people aged 5 to 19 years between 1990 and 2023 myopia rate It rose from 24% to 36%. In Japan in particular, 86% of children and teenagers are currently nearsighted, while in Paraguay this is only 0.84%. It is stated that this percentage could reach 70% in Asia by 2050.

Screen addiction threatens children’s visual health

Due to the impact of COVID-19 together increase in the number of myopia attracts attention. Due to the restrictions brought about by the pandemic, many children had to spend time in front of the screen. This had a significant impact on vision loss. For example, a study in Hong Kong found a rapid increase in myopia in 709 children between the ages of 6 and 8. If children do not spend enough time outdoors, the risk of myopia can be up to 60%.

Researchers say that starting formal education practices at a young age can influence the degree of myopia. In Singapore and Hong Kong, for example, children participate in educational programs at the age of two or three. Well among children and young people in Africa myopia rate It is seven times lower than in Asia.

Researchers believe these findings will benefit future generations. protect eye health He emphasizes that this is a crucial step