More and more children and teenagers are developing myopia at a young age. While genetics play an important role, lifestyle habits also have a significant impact on visual health.
So, what can be done to prevent or slow the progression of myopia in young people?
Understanding the causes
Today, several factors contribute to the rise of myopia in children and adolescents:
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Increased screen time
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Lack of exposure to natural light
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Prolonged near-vision activities
These habits, which are increasingly part of daily life, can influence visual development.
Spending more time outdoors
Natural light plays a key role in eye development.
Spending time outdoors helps stimulate the retina and may help limit the elongation of the eye, a key factor in the development of myopia.
Encouraging children to play outside, even for short periods each day can make a real difference.
Limiting screen time
Screens take up a large part of young people’s daily lives. However, prolonged exposure can strain the eyes and contribute to the progression of myopia.
It is recommended to:
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Limit daily screen time
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Maintain an appropriate distance from devices
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Take regular breaks
Developing good habits from an early age is essential for preserving eye health.
Adopting a balanced diet
A healthy diet also supports eye health.
Certain nutrients are particularly beneficial, including:
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Omega-3s
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Vitamin A
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Lutein
Incorporating these nutrients into daily meals can help support proper visual function.
Acting early to protect vision
Myopia can progress over time, but simple actions can help slow its development.
At IRIS, our professionals support families in monitoring children’s vision and offer solutions tailored to each individual situation.
Because seeing clearly from a young age is essential for healthy development and overall well-being.
