Bangalore - Myopia is emerging as a global pandemic at an alarming rate, predicted to affect 50 percent of the world's population by 2050. Currently, myopia affects one in every four children, and this condition does not reverse and may even worsen with age. High myopia can increase the risk of vision-threatening conditions such as cataract,retinal detachment, maculopathy, and glaucoma.
The risk factors for myopia in children include genetics, increased near activities, reduced outdoor play, excessive screen time, and nutritional deficiency. Increased time in front of screens among children, either for study purposes or for play, not only affects their vision but also their physical health, increasing the risk of obesity, disturbed sleep patterns, and psychological stress.It also has an impact on the social, mental and cognitive development of the child.
Children with myopia often shy away from sports, and blurred vision due to myopia can reduce concentration in class. If myopia is unidentified, it can lead to poor academic performance and have psychological effects such as lack of confidence or avoidance of socializing.Therefore, teachers and parents play a crucial role in identifying the early signs of myopia and taking proactive steps to curb it.
“If you look at the class photographs of children these days, you will find almost all the children wearing glasses. This is alarming. It is important to understand that glasses are a handicap, not a cure for myopia. Education about its prevention is the cure. Studies have shown that compulsory exposure to outdoors and sunlight for 2 hours has a significant impact on reducing the risk of myopia. We urge governments to create a policy for mandatory screening of children at schools, provision of glasses for children, and educating/training teachers to identify the early signs of myopia for proper treatment, to create a world free from glasses.” – Dr. Rohit Shetty, Chairman, Narayana Nethralaya.
Narayana Nethralaya is at the forefront of fighting myopia with a state-of-the-art myopia clinic, cutting-edge research, and myopia control strategies. We urge all schools and families to encourage outdoor play for children so they are exposed to Vitamin D, that triggers the release of dopamine that helps regulate eye growth and counteracts the effects of near work, ultimately reducing the risk of myopia development.
“We were the first eye hospital in Karnataka to start the myopia clinic under the visionary leadership of Dr. K Bhujang Shetty. With advanced diagnostics and the Myopia Master, which can predict the progression of myopia for children by the age of 18, we aim to prevent the progression of myopia. With digitalization being the new way of life and a necessity these days, it’s very important for hospitals, schools, parents, and the government to come together to take preventive measures to cope with this problem.” – GpCapt S K Mittal VSM, Chairman, Narayana Nethralaya.
“10 years back, the number of children in rural schools with myopia were fewer than it is today, mainly because the use of smartphones has increased among children in rural areas too. The need for screening and identifying such cases, and the provision of glasses, is crucial.” – Dr.Bhanumathi M, Head of the Department, Pediatric Ophthalmology &Strabismology.
Additionally, we aim to unite families, teachers, doctors, and the community through our initiative, "Sun, Fun, Fight Myopia on the Run," to raise awareness about myopia, promote its prevention, and emphasize the importance of timely action.This is not just a run; it's a fun-filled event with a Myopia funzone that includes activities for the entire family, designed to keep children engaged while also educating them about myopia and its prevention.
Event Highlights:
• 1.5K Family Run
• Magic Show
• Face Painting
• Bouncy Castle
• Fun & Educative Games with Prizes for Kids
• Traditional Folk Performance by Janapada Academy
• Healthy Snacks and Nutritional Advice for Children
Event Details:
• Event: Sun, Fun, Fight Myopia on the Run
• Date & Time: Sunday, 28th July 2024, from 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM
• Location: Rajendra Singhji Army Officers Institute, M G Road, Bangalore
“What is important to note is that genetics play a role as a risk factor in myopia, but the current lifestyle is a major cause of its development. If lifestyle changes are initiated among families, such as increasing outdoor play, reducing screen time to less than 2 hours per day, and most importantly, adults reducing the usage of digital devices to set a positive influence on the kids, it can make a significant difference.” – Dr. B A Maithri, Consultant, Pediatric Ophthalmology &Strabismology.
We kindly request your support in raising awareness about myopia. Educating people on this concern is crucial for early identification and treatment to ensure a clearer and brighter future for our children. Come and experience the magic, and unite with us in the fight against myopia.
GpCapt S K Mittal VSM (Veteran)
CEO
Narayana Nethralaya
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