Can prolonged use of screens cause myopia?

06 February 2025

In today's digital age, time in front of electronic devices has become an integral part of our daily lives. From work and study to entertainment, prolonged screen use is a constant. This change in our habits has raised concerns about eye health, in particular about whether excessive screen use could cause or aggravate myopia.

Myopia is a refractive defect that makes it difficult to see distant objects, while close vision usually remains relatively clear. It occurs when the eyeball is slightly longer than normal or when the cornea has an excessive curvature, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. This problem may have genetic components, but a strong influence of environmental and lifestyle factors has also been observed.

The relationship between prolonged screen use and myopia is complex. Current evidence does not allow us to conclusively state that screens are the direct cause of myopia. Excessive use of electronic devices is more likely to be one of several factors that, together with genetic predisposition and other habits (such as low exposure to natural light), contribute to the onset or progression of myopia.

In other words, although time spent on near vision activities is a risk factor, it is not the only one responsible. Myopia is a multifactorial condition, and the interaction between genetics and environment plays a crucial role. Research continues to determine how exactly these factors are related and what interventions could be effective in preventing its progression.

With screen use on the rise, it is important to adopt habits that help mitigate eye fatigue and potentially reduce the risk of developing myopia or its progression:

1. 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look away from the screen and look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This short break helps relax your eye muscles.
2. Increase time outdoors: Especially for children, it is recommended to spend at least 1 to 2 hours a day outdoors. Natural light is not only beneficial for general health, but can also have a protective effect against myopia.
3. Adjust lighting and screen settings: Maintain adequate lighting in the work area to avoid glare and adjust screen brightness and contrast according to environmental conditions.
4. Maintain proper posture: Make sure the screen is at a comfortable distance and height, avoiding postures that can cause neck and eye strain.
5. Have regular check-ups with an eye care professional: It is essential to see an ophthalmologist regularly to detect any changes in vision in time and take the necessary measures.