One in three children worldwide now short-sighted, study finds

A global study shows that one in three children is now short-sighted, with rates tripling since 1990 to 36% in 2023. Increased screen time and reduced outdoor activities during the COVID-19 pandemic are linked to this rise. The study analyzed data from over five million children across 50 countries. Regions like Asia report the highest rates, with 85% of children in Japan affected, while countries like Paraguay and Uganda have rates as low as 1%. Experts warn that by 2050, over half of the world's teenagers could be myopic. They recommend children spend at least two hours outdoors daily and have regular eye exams to manage the condition effectively.