Journal of Eye Diseases and Disorders

Environmental and Lifestyle Factors Influencing Myopia

Oliver Mason^* Department of Ophthalmology, Northfield University, Birmingham, United Kingdom
^*Correspondence: Oliver Mason, Department of Ophthalmology, Northfield University, Birmingham, United Kingdom, Email:

Received: 17-Nov-2025, Manuscript No. JEDD-25-30795; , Pre QC No. JEDD-25-30795 (PQ); , QC No. JEDD-25-30795; , Manuscript No. JEDD-25-30795 (R); , DOI: 10.35248/2684-1622.25.10.307

Description

Myopia, also known as near-sightedness, is a common visual condition in which distant objects appear blurry while near objects remain clear. Its prevalence has risen steadily across the world, particularly among children and adolescents. While genetic factors contribute to the risk of developing myopia, environmental and lifestyle factors also play a significant role in its onset and progression. Understanding these influences is essential for managing the condition and supporting long-term eye health. Research has consistently shown that children with a family history of myopia are more likely to develop the condition themselves. However, genetic predisposition alone does not account for the dramatic increase in prevalence seen in recent decades. Environmental conditions, daily routines and visual habits appear to interact with hereditary factors to influence how myopia develops and progresses over time. One of the most significant environmental factors associated with myopia is the amount of time spent on near-work activities. Reading, writing and prolonged use of computers, tablets and smartphones require sustained focus at close distances. Extended near work places stress on the eye’s focusing system, which may lead to elongation of the eyeball and the development of myopia. Children who spend several hours daily on near-work tasks without breaks are at higher risk of both developing and accelerating the progression of myopia [1-5].

Conversely, time spent outdoors has been associated with a lower risk of developing near-sightedness. Exposure to natural light, combined with opportunities to view distant objects, appears to reduce the likelihood of myopia onset in children. Sunlight stimulates the release of retinal neurotransmitters that may regulate eye growth, preventing excessive elongation of the eyeball. Outdoor activities such as sports, walking or simply playing in open spaces allow the eyes to focus at varying distances, relieving strain and supporting healthy visual development. Screen use is another lifestyle factor that affects myopia. While technology provides significant educational and recreational benefits, prolonged screen time can contribute to eye strain and fatigue. Holding screens close to the eyes for extended periods can reinforce the tendency toward near-focus adaptation, increasing the risk of myopia progression. Encouraging regular breaks, adjusting screen distance and ensuring proper lighting can help reduce visual stress. Posture and visual ergonomics also influence the development of myopia. Children who read or write while lying down or holding books very close to the eyes may experience increased eye strain. Establishing proper posture, using supportive furniture and positioning reading materials at a comfortable distance can reduce the stress on the visual system. Additionally, alternating near-work with activities that require looking into the distance can relieve continuous eye focusing effort [6-10].

Diet and general health may indirectly affect eye development as well. Nutrients that support eye health, including vitamins A, C, E and omega-3 fatty acids, contribute to the overall functioning of the retina and ocular tissues. Maintaining a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle supports visual development alongside other preventive measures. Early detection of myopia and monitoring its progression are critical. Children who develop myopia at a young age are more likely to experience rapid progression, leading to higher levels of refractive error and potential complications later in life. Routine eye examinations, especially for school-age children, can identify early signs of myopia and guide interventions such as corrective lenses, lifestyle adjustments and preventive strategies. Preventive measures include increasing outdoor activities, limiting prolonged nearwork sessions, taking frequent visual breaks and maintaining proper posture and lighting while reading or using screens. Eye care professionals may also recommend specialized corrective lenses or interventions designed to slow myopia progression in high-risk children.

Conclusion

In conclusion, myopia is influenced by a combination of hereditary and environmental factors. While genetic predisposition sets the baseline risk, lifestyle and environmental exposures play a substantial role in determining when and how quickly myopia develops. Encouraging outdoor activity, limiting excessive near-work, promoting ergonomic reading habits and monitoring visual health are all essential strategies for managing myopia in children and young adults. Through awareness and practical measures, families and educators can contribute to healthier visual development and reduce the long-term impact of near-sightedness.

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