Excessive screen time is one of the major factors contributing to myopia (short-sightedness), especially in children and teenagers. When people spend long hours focusing on mobile phones, tablets, or computers, the eyes continuously work at a close distance. This prolonged near work increases strain on the eye muscles and may lead to elongation of the eyeball, causing distant objects to appear blurry. Reduced outdoor activity also plays an important role, as natural sunlight helps in healthy eye development and slows myopia progression. Poor screen habits such as holding devices too close, using screens in dim light, and not taking breaks can further worsen eye strain. Experts recommend following the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Regular eye check-ups, limiting recreational screen time, and encouraging outdoor activities can help protect vision and reduce the risk of myopia progression. — Dr. Mohini Modak at Focus Eye Clinic
