What is causing the rise in Malaysian children needing glasses?

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Electronic Gadget Usage Linked to Increased Need for Glasses Among Malaysian Children

A significant factor contributing to the rise in Malaysian children requiring spectacles is the extensive use of electronic gadgets. Prolonged exposure to these devices can lead to refractive errors, such as long-sightedness, short-sightedness, and astigmatism, with some children as young as two years old now needing corrective eyewear.
Refractive Errors Linked to Gadget Exposure

Consultant ophthalmologist Dr Narendran Muthukrishnan has expressed concern over the increasing number of children needing glasses. He identifies long hours spent with electronic devices as a key contributor to vision problems. This extended exposure can induce refractive errors, fundamentally altering how a child's eyes focus light, potentially leading to conditions like myopia (short-sightedness) or hyperopia (long-sightedness).
Early Onset of Vision Issues

The impact of excessive screen time is evident in the age at which children are now requiring vision correction. Dr Narendran notes that children as young as two years old are being diagnosed with conditions necessitating the use of glasses. This early onset suggests a more pronounced effect of modern lifestyle habits on developing eyesight, deviating from previous norms.
Parental Guidance and Eye Health

To mitigate these vision issues, parents are advised to actively manage their children's screen time. Dr Narendran recommends reducing the overall usage of electronic gadgets and specifically prohibiting their use within three hours of bedtime. Regular eye check-ups with optometrists are also crucial for early detection and management of any developing refractive errors.
Limitations on Corrective Surgery for Minors

Surgical interventions like LASIK are not considered suitable for children and adolescents. Dr Narendran clarifies that corrective surgery is generally not recommended for individuals under the age of 18. This is because children's eyes are still in a developmental stage during these formative years, and such procedures are typically reserved for adults whose vision has stabilised.

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What is causing the rise in Malaysian children needing glasses?

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