Children can protect their vision by playing outside according to science. Shortsightedness is an eye condition where the eyeball is too long. This condition is becoming more common around the world. In fact, it is estimated that 90 percent of children and teens have this condition.
There have been several studies done in the past that have shown that playing outside can reduce the risk of myopia, which is a condition that causes nearsightedness. Researchers have confirmed that outdoor light can protect eyesight. Additionally, experts have stated that looking at distant objects is important.
There are other factors that can affect a child’s risk of becoming shortsighted. This condition is more common in children who were born in the summer time. It is also more common in children who play video games.
Katie Williams is one of the study authors who works at King’s College London. She stated that there is nothing that parents can do about the time of year that their child is born. However, they can make sure that their children do not spend too much time indoors or playing video games.
The team found that a child’s risk of becoming shortsighted increased by 3 percent for every hour that they spent inside playing video games. This may occur because children sit too close to the screens. It may also occur because the children are spending more time indoors.
Genetics also plays a role in shortsightedness. However, the study authors found that genetics only played a role in 4.4 percent of myopia cases. Most vision problems can easily be corrected with contact lenses or glasses.
However, people who are shortsighted are more likely to develop more serious eye conditions. That is why it is important for people to do everything that they can to prevent the condition from getting worse.
