A new study published in JAMA Network Open warns that spending just one hour daily on tablets or smartphones increases the risk of myopia (nearsightedness) by 21 percent. The research, analyzing data from over 335,000 participants, suggests a potential safety threshold of less than one hour of screen time daily, with risks escalating significantly from 1 to 4 hours. Prolonged screen use is linked to various health issues, including decreased cognitive function, obesity, and spinal problems. These findings aim to guide clinicians addressing the growing “myopia pandemic,” as excessive screen time becomes a major concern for students and educators.
Here’s another caution for those who enjoy spending countless hours in front of digital screens. A recent study indicates that dedicating even just one hour a day to tablets or smartphones may significantly heighten the risk of myopia or nearsightedness.
The systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis revealed that a daily increment of 1 hour in digital screen time correlated with a 21 percent increase in the odds of developing myopia (nearsightedness), as reported in the study published in JAMA Network Open.
The dose-response relationship demonstrated a sigmoidal pattern, suggesting a possible safety threshold of under 1 hour per day of screen exposure, with odds increasing up to 4 hours.
“These findings can provide valuable insights to clinicians and researchers concerning the risk of myopia,” the researchers commented.
There has been a notable rise in cases of nearsightedness, primarily attributed to the growing utilization of digital screens.
The research team evaluated data from 45 studies that examined the relationship between screen time and nearsightedness, involving over 335,000 participants ranging from toddlers to young adults.
The researchers noted that risk levels rose significantly with 1-4 hours of screen time, thereafter increasing at a more gradual pace.
However, no association was found for screen time under 1 hour, hinting at a potential safety threshold. The authors suggest that these insights can aid clinicians in tackling the “myopia pandemic.”
Recently, industry specialists in India deliberated on the influence of technology and gadgets, which present major challenges for students, parents, and teachers, especially during examination periods.
Extended periods of screen exposure can impact cognitive functions of the brain. This effect is largely due to the shortened attention span and prolonged screen usage, which frequently involves maintaining poor posture on beds or couches.
This could lead to several health issues, including obesity, body pains, spinal problems, and chronic backaches.
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