Study Finds One in Three Children Worldwide Are Now Nearsighted

Research links the rise in myopia to increased screen time and reduced outdoor activities, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The global prevalence of myopia in children and adolescents has risen from 24% in 1990 to nearly 36% in 2023.
East Asian countries exhibit the highest rates, with Japan at 86% and South Korea at 74%.
Girls are more likely to develop myopia than boys, partly due to earlier physical development and less outdoor activity.
The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the increase in myopia due to prolonged indoor time and increased screen use.
Experts recommend increasing outdoor activities, reducing screen time, and regular eye exams to help mitigate the rise in myopia.