Does near-work cause nearsightedness?
JUN 23, 2019
Question:
Does near-work cause nearsightedness?
Answer:
You have asked a great question that many eye doctors and researchers are asking. Unfortunately, there is not a definitive answer to your question. Nearsightedness, or myopia, is characterized by poor distance vision that can be corrected with eyeglasses, contact lenses, or LASIK surgery. Myopia usually occurs when the eyeball is too long, or the cornea (clear dome-shaped window at the front of the eye) is too steep—or both. Myopia appears to be passed to children by one or both parents in many, but not all cases.
Evidence suggests that humans have had this condition for thousands of years, but the incidence of myopia today appears to be increasing significantly. A recent study suggests that heavy use of computers and other devices may raise the risk for myopia in children, and another pointed to a reduced risk among children who spent more time outdoors.
Since myopia is often hereditary, this argues against the “reading causing myopia” argument. Since the incidence of myopia is significantly increasing, this argues against the “hereditary only” argument.
Until conclusive proof can be offered, most ophthalmologists work under the assumption that many different things can cause myopia and it is wise to have a well-rounded visual world with a balance in near- and far-vision activities.