Experts warned against the increasing risk of “blindness epidemic” in Generation Z as they do not go out as much as before. Accordingly, constantly looking at the screens of technological devices and staying away from daylight can trigger a wave of blindness.

Ophthalmologists have warned that Generation Z children could be exposed to an epidemic of blindness that could threaten entire health systems as they age. Increased screen time means Generation Z is “missing out on natural light”, which is vital during their formative years. This has the potential to have a devastating long-term impact on their eyesight. The UK, where the research was conducted, has seen a 46 percent increase in cases over the last 30 years, while cases of myopia are on the rise worldwide. But the figures have reached “epidemic levels” with eye surgeons warning that the situation will get worse.

Children Are Not Getting Enough Dopamine

Experts say that children who stay indoors on computers during adolescence do not get enough dopamine, which damages their eyes. Another factor that can trigger this epidemic is the amount of time spent looking at phones and tablets held inches away from the face. This can cause myopia, or nearsightedness. Experts have observed that in some parts of China, the rate of myopia has risen from 30 percent to 95 percent and above. Research suggests that cases of bad myopia in young people increase the likelihood of developing “macular degeneration” by 41 percent. One type of age-related macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness. Experts warned parents to limit their children’s screen time, saying that tablets and televisions are often used as “babysitters”.

June 2024