← Return to I'm Myopic, And My Parents Won't Allow Me To Play Videogames

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@loribmt

Hi @vibhsingh1234 There is evidence that Myopia can be caused by both genetic and environmental factors, such as extended screen time or daily prolonged near vision activities. There are some statistics that show myopia rates in children and adolescence have doubled since the 1970s…the correlation is thought to be the introduction of cell phones, tablets, video gaming, and the lack of exercising.

However, from looking at scattered articles from credible sources, there’s no definitive answer of yes or no. I’ve posted a few articles for you below.

American Optometric Association:
https://www.aoa.org/news/clinical-eye-care/health-and-wellness/children-device-use-and-myopia?sso=y
American Academy of Opthamology
https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/myopia-control-in-children
Studies released by the National Institute of Health.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6120514/
https://www.optometrists.org/childrens-vision/healthy-eyes-for-life-8-ideas-to-teach-children/can-gaming-cause-myopia/#:~:text=Although%20online%20gaming%20has%20become%20a%20popular%2C%20recreational,and%20limit%20their%20exposure%20as%20much%20as%20possible.
Are you on your phone or larger screen? It can make a difference with the distance you are from the screen. Visual stress can be caused by spending too much time doing up-close activities, such as reading or doing computer work. Eye experts believe that your focusing muscles may get stuck in “near gear” from overusing them this way. As a student you spend countless hours on the computer or phone as well. The differnce with a video game is the amount of concentration required without distraction. So your eyes are always in ‘near focus’ activity mode and that is where the problem can come into focus…pun intended.

I don’t think I’m helping your cause any because your parents might be valid in their concerns. However, you sound very reasonable and responsible about limiting your game time and trying to find a balance. With a diopter level of 7.0, you’re already very nearsighted so I’m sure they’re concerned for further progression. How old where you when you got your first pair of glasses?

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Replies to "Hi @vibhsingh1234 There is evidence that Myopia can be caused by both genetic and environmental factors,..."

I use a 24-inch curved monitor, with a distance of 20 inches between my eyes and the monitor. I do not play games on my phone. I was in second grade when I got my first pair of glasses.