The Australian College of Optometry says the average age of diagnosis had dropped from 12 to eight years, with causes attributed to excessive use of screens and not enough time outdoors.
Auburn’s Western Sydney Eye Doctors are concerned numbers continue to rise, with optometrist Seline Azzi revealing they have many children on myopia treatment plans.
“We have a good chunk of patients that are affected and most of them are quite young,” she said.
“Children are on their devices a lot more, not just for online learning but for entertainment.
“It’s important to limit screen time and ensure the device is held as far from your face as possible.”
Ms Azzi said it was also important for children to spend time outside, with sunlight helping the human body to produce Vitamin D which plays an important role in vision health.
“Parents need to ensure their child’s eyes are tested annually or every six months if there’s a problem.”
Berala optometrist Janis M Stein agrees, adding it’s disappointing when you notice a family of four at a restaurant and every one is on their phones.
“It’s a sign of the times and I’ve definitely seen an increase in the number of short-sighted children; it’s vital parents encourage less screen time and more activity outdoors,” she said.
Child short-sightedness crisis
WITH an estimated 36 per cent of Australians already affected, optometrists are warning of a myopia epidemic as the proportion of children presenting with short-sightedness has almost doubled.