AGOS Summit Highlights Alarming Rise in Childhood Myopia in Gujarat
Ophthalmologists convened at the All Gujarat Ophthalmological Society (AGOS) summit have issued a stark warning about the escalating burden of myopia, or nearsightedness, among children and adolescents in the state. The two-day summit, which commenced on Saturday, focused on preventive strategies and treatment solutions to combat this rapidly growing public health concern.
Post-Covid Surge and Urban Disparities
Dr. Jagdish Rana, Secretary of AGOS, revealed that urban areas in Gujarat have witnessed a significant increase in pediatric myopia cases following the Covid-19 pandemic. "We observed a 20% rise in such cases compared to the pre-Covid period," Dr. Rana stated. He emphasized that while prolonged use of digital devices and screens is a well-known contributor, a critical factor often overlooked is the lack of outdoor activities that train the eyes for distance vision.
According to India-centric studies presented at the conference, the prevalence of myopia among school-going children has skyrocketed from approximately 5% in the 2000s to over 20% in the 2020s. This issue shows a clear urban-rural divide, with rural areas reporting a prevalence of around 7-8%, while urban areas see rates as high as 20-22%.
Screen Time and Lifestyle Factors
Experts at the summit pointed to excessive and early screen exposure as a major driver of the myopia epidemic. In many cases, children under five years of age are now regularly using screens, a trend that has intensified post-Covid. "When we interact with children, we often inquire about their daily routines. A growing number confess that they have their meals in front of a screen, be it a TV, laptop, or smartphone," shared a city-based ophthalmologist attending the event.
The AGOS conference underscored that myopia is not solely a result of digital device usage but is compounded by a sedentary lifestyle that deprives children of essential outdoor play. Regular outdoor activities are crucial for eye health, as they help the eyes focus on distant objects and reduce the risk of myopia progression.
Call to Action for Parents and Communities
Ophthalmologists urged parents to take proactive measures to safeguard their children's vision. Key recommendations include:
- Limiting screen time and ensuring breaks during prolonged use.
- Encouraging daily outdoor play and physical activities.
- Promoting healthy viewing habits, such as maintaining proper distance from screens.
- Scheduling regular eye check-ups for early detection and intervention.
The summit concluded with a consensus on the need for heightened awareness and collaborative efforts among healthcare providers, educators, and families to address this pressing issue. With myopia rates climbing, the AGOS emphasizes that preventive care and lifestyle modifications are vital to protecting the visual health of Gujarat's younger generation.
