Causes of Childhood Myopia

Childhood myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a common eye condition that affects many children worldwide. It occurs when the eye grows too long from front to back, causing light rays to focus in front of the retina instead of on it. This leads to blurry distance vision.

There are several factors that contribute to the development of myopia in children:

• Genetics: Children with myopic parents have a higher risk of developing myopia themselves.
• Excessive Near Work: Spending too much time doing activities at close range, such as reading or using electronic devices, can strain the eyes and increase the risk of myopia.
• Lack of Outdoor Activities: Spending time outdoors exposes children to bright natural light, which has been found to help prevent myopia progression.
• Environmental Factors: Certain environmental factors, such as living in urban areas with limited green spaces, may contribute to the development of myopia.

While the exact cause of childhood myopia is still not fully understood, it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. If you suspect your child may have myopia, it is important to schedule an eye exam with an optometrist to diagnose their condition and discuss treatment options.