In the era of 4.0 or the present day, there is convenience in communication, education, and work, all made easier with modern technology. Despite the many advantages, there are also disadvantages. One noticeable disadvantage is the impact on eye health, particularly the increased prevalence of myopia due to the use of tablets, computers, and mobile phones. The light from screens and the need to focus on text and moving images lead to a rise in myopia, especially among children who develop myopia prematurely.
According to the Rajanukul Institute, myopia in children can lead to brain issues. Good vision is crucial for learning efficiency and participating in various activities. Therefore, parents should not neglect their child’s eye care from infancy. Ignoring early symptoms, such as initial myopia, could lead to severe eye diseases, potentially resulting in blindness in the future.
Myopia is a global problem and is considered a crisis for the global population. The World Health Organization (WHO) predicts that by 2050, half of the world’s population will be myopic. This makes myopia a significant issue affecting every country and continent. Alarmingly, it is estimated that the number of people with high myopia (a prescription of over 500) will reach 1 billion in the next 20 years. A study in Japan found that children who become myopic at age 6 are likely to have a prescription over 500 as they grow, with some reaching up to 1,000. Highly myopic individuals have an increased risk of glaucoma, retinal detachment, and cataracts.
Normal Vision in Children
In young children, normal vision tends to be hyperopia (farsightedness) because their eyes are smaller and the focusing power of the cornea and lens is less than that of adults. Thus, images are focused behind the retina, resulting in hyperopia, which may increase until about the age of 8. After that, hyperopia usually decreases to normal levels.
Because eye health is crucial for children, parents need to prioritize it as much as other organs. When considering an eye examination, parents might wonder what assessments an ophthalmologist will perform and how to prepare their child for the examination.
What Can Be Assessed in an Eye Examination?
- Visual behavior
- Visual acuity
- Amblyopia (lazy eye)
- Binocularity (the use of both eyes together) and stereopsis (3D vision)
- Color vision
- Extraocular movement
- Strabismus (crossed eyes)
- Anterior segment examination (cornea, anterior chamber, lens) using a slit lamp biomicroscope
- Refractive and accommodative status
- Intraocular pressure
- Visual field
- Retinal photography
Vision Abnormalities in Children
- Hyperopia (farsightedness)
- Myopia (nearsightedness) and pseudomyopia
- Astigmatism
Preventing or Slowing Myopia in Children
- Limit screen time and establish appropriate usage periods.
- Change behaviors to reduce risk factors, minimize close-up activities, and increase outdoor activities.
- Encourage children to play sports or engage in outdoor activities for at least 2 hours per day.
- If myopia begins, use lenses appropriate to the child’s prescription as recommended by an ophthalmologist.
Slowing myopia is not about preventing it but preventing its rapid progression. This can be done through various methods, so it is advised to consult a doctor for eye health advice and choose the appropriate method for each child.
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