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The eyes are not having it - excessive screen time is damaging vision and becoming a public health issue

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2025/ .. g-vision-and-becoming-a-public-health-issue.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Friday, October 3rd 2025 at 10:30 GMT by Channel NewsAsia Singapore
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Digital Light and the Eyes: How Our Screens Are Shaping Vision Health

In an age where smartphones, laptops and tablets have become extensions of our bodies, Channel News Asia’s in‑depth piece “Eye Health: Vision Damage from Screen Time” tackles a question that has quietly entered everyday conversation—are we risking long‑term eye damage just by scrolling through social media or binge‑watching shows? The article, which sits in the “Big Read” series, pulls together the latest research, expert commentary and practical advice to help readers understand the science behind digital eye strain and what can be done to protect vision in a screen‑first world.

The Anatomy of Digital Eye Strain

At its core, the article explains that the modern eye is simply not built for the high‑contrast, high‑frequency flicker of digital displays. When we stare at a screen, our pupils constrict, the tear film thickens and the ciliary muscles that control focus are continuously strained. Over time, the combination of reduced blink rates and an overloaded visual system can lead to:

• Dry eye symptoms – burning, itching or a gritty feeling that may worsen as the day goes on.
• Blurred vision or difficulty focusing – a frequent complaint that can persist even after a break from the device.
• Headaches and neck pain – often tied to improper posture and prolonged periods of looking downward or left‑right across a screen.

The article cites a 2021 study published in Ophthalmology that found a significant correlation between hours spent on digital devices and the prevalence of dry‑eye syndrome in adults aged 18‑35. While the research does not prove causation, it underscores a trend that has been growing in tandem with the ubiquity of screens.

Blue Light: Myths, Facts and the Long‑Term Outlook

One of the most debated topics in the piece is blue light – the high‑energy visible light emitted by LED‑backlit screens. The article distinguishes between the short‑term effects (temporary disruption of circadian rhythms, digital eye strain) and the long‑term risks that are still being investigated.

• Circadian Impact – The article notes that exposure to blue light in the evening can suppress melatonin production, potentially delaying sleep onset. This aligns with research from the University of Pittsburgh, which the article references via a link that explains how blue‑blocking lenses can mitigate these effects.
• Retinal Health – While the American Academy of Ophthalmology acknowledges that laboratory studies have shown blue light can damage retinal cells under high intensity, the article stresses that typical screen exposure is far below the levels that have been demonstrated to cause damage in animal models. Still, it urges caution, especially for children who may be more vulnerable.

Pediatric Concerns: The Rising Tide of Myopia

A standout segment of the article focuses on the surge of myopia (nearsightedness) in children. The author cites a multi‑country study from the British Journal of Ophthalmology that links excessive near‑work—particularly prolonged screen time— to higher rates of myopia progression in kids aged 5‑12. The piece explains that while genetics play a role, environmental factors such as limited outdoor time and increased digital device usage appear to tip the balance.

Experts quoted in the article, including Dr. Siti Ahmad, a pediatric ophthalmologist based in Kuala Lumpur, advise parents to enforce the “20‑20‑20” rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This simple practice can help reduce accommodative fatigue and give the eye’s natural muscles a brief respite.

Practical Tips: Protecting Vision in the Digital Age

The article concludes with a “quick‑start guide” that compiles actionable steps:

1. Adjust Screen Settings
   Reduce brightness to match ambient lighting.
   Enable night‑mode or blue‑light filter settings after sunset.

2. Maintain Proper Distance and Posture
   Keep the screen about an arm’s length away.
   Position the top of the screen at or slightly below eye level.

3. Take Regular Breaks
   * Follow the 20‑20‑20 rule or set an alarm to remind you to look away every 30 minutes.

4. Blink Frequently
   * Consciously blink to keep the tear film lubricated.

5. Get a Professional Eye Exam
   * Annual check‑ups can catch early signs of dry eye or myopic shifts, especially in adolescents.

6. Limit Screen Time for Children
   * The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no more than one hour per day of high‑quality screen time for children aged 2‑5, and balanced usage for older kids.

The article also links to the World Health Organization’s guidelines on healthy eye care, providing readers with an international perspective on recommended screen exposure limits.

A Call to Action

While the article doesn’t present any dramatic “warning” about irreversible vision loss, it frames the issue as one that deserves proactive management. “We’re living in a world where screens are essential, but we’re also learning that our eyes are not passive bystanders,” the author writes. “By incorporating small, consistent habits, we can reduce the risk of digital eye strain and protect our vision for the long haul.”

In a time when a single tap can launch a new app or an instant message, the piece reminds us that eye health is an ongoing conversation—one that involves the medical community, parents, educators, and every individual who spends hours in front of a glowing surface. By staying informed and taking the recommended precautions, readers can strike a balance that lets them enjoy digital content while keeping their vision safe.