Rising Screen Time Weakening Eyesight of Young Children in Himachal
Cases of weak eyesight among children in Himachal Pradesh are increasing even before they reach school-going age. Outdoor activities and sports are being replaced by mobile games, reels, animated movies, and online classes, directly impacting children’s eye health.
Hospitals are witnessing a growing number of young children visiting for eye check-ups and treatment. Doctors attribute the problem mainly to excessive use of mobile phones, laptops, and other digital gadgets. Experts recommend regular eye examinations before children begin school to detect vision problems at an early stage.
If weak eyesight is detected during testing, timely use of prescribed spectacles can significantly improve vision. In some cases, as children grow and develop, their eyesight may also improve.
At Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital in Shimla, an average of three to four young children visit the OPD daily for eye check-ups. At IGMC, the number ranges between five to seven cases per day, which is higher than previous years.
According to Dr. Praveen Panwar from the Department of Ophthalmology at IGMC, prolonged use of mobiles and laptops, watching reels, and attending online classes put strain on children’s eyes. Viewing screens at close range increases exposure to light and heat, leading to dryness and weakening of vision.
Experts advise parents to limit screen time, ensure regular eye check-ups, promote balanced diets rich in green vegetables, and encourage outdoor activities. The use of blue light protection glasses, if necessary, may also help protect children’s vision.
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