Just a few decades ago, before modern life reached the polar regions, the Inuit lived in constant contact with nature. They hunted, traveled through open landscapes, and spent long hours outdoors. Back then, they enjoyed excellent visual health.

Over time, however, everything changed: schools, supermarkets, heated homes, televisions, and books appeared. It was no longer necessary to go outside to survive. Children and adolescents started spending more time indoors, and with this change in habits, many of the Inuit’s grandchildren began developing myopia.

How could it be that, despite more comfort and better access to education, their vision worsened? This question drew the attention of several ophthalmologists in the late 20th century. Today, we know that lifestyle changes are closely linked to the rise in myopia among children and adolescents.

Myopia: The Great Visual Challenge of the 21st Century

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a refractive error that causes distant objects to appear blurry. It happens when the eye is longer than normal, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it.

Although genetics play a role, visual habits are key in the development and progression of myopia. Spending long hours doing near work, limited exposure to natural light, and constant screen use are some of the main risk factors.

The Impact of the Pandemic and Today’s Lifestyle

In Girona, during the 2020 lockdown, myopia among adolescents increased by 25%. In countries like Japan, the situation is even more concerning: up to 95% of young people are now myopic, and there are already clinics dedicated exclusively to treating it.

All of this brings us to an important question:
Are we doing enough to protect the visual health of our children?

How to Prevent Myopia in Children

While we can’t control genetics, we can shape healthy visual habits. Here are some practical tips to help prevent myopia in children and teens:

👁️ 1. Maximize natural light exposure
Spending at least two hours a day outdoors significantly lowers the risk of developing myopia. Activities like playing at the park, doing sports, or simply going for a walk are all beneficial for eye health.

⏱️ 2. Follow the 20-20-20 rule
Every 20 minutes of near work (like reading or screen time), take a break and look at something at least 6 meters (20 feet) away for 20 seconds to relax the eye muscles.

🔍 3. Schedule regular eye exams
A vision check-up every two years is recommended—especially if there are symptoms like headaches, blurry vision, or reading difficulties.

📵 4. Limit screen time
Reduce exposure to screens, especially in children under 4. Encourage free play and time spent outdoors instead.

Healthy Vision Starts in Childhood

Myopia isn’t just about needing glasses. It can impact quality of life and, if left untreated, may lead to serious visual complications over time. That’s why it’s essential to promote good visual habits from a young age and ensure regular check-ups with eye care professionals.

Now we understand why those Inuit grandchildren, who stayed indoors with books and TV instead of venturing out to hunt, started to lose their clear vision. Healthy childhood eyesight is built daily—with prevention, fresh air, and personalized care.

👨‍⚕️ Want to check your child’s vision?

At Oftalis – Institute of Ophthalmology at Clínica Girona, we’re here to help you care for your family’s eye health.
📞 Contact us or request an appointment online!