What is it about?
The study titled "Association of Excessive Screen Time Exposure with Astigmatism and Ocular Dimension Change in Children" by Mutahir Shah investigates the impact of prolonged screen use on children’s eye health, specifically focusing on astigmatism and related ocular changes. Conducted at a tertiary care hospital in Islamabad between June 2023 and May 2024, the cross-sectional correlational study included 431 children with a mean age of 6.7 years. Screen time was assessed through smartphone usage records or parental reports, while ocular surface health was evaluated by measuring tear break-up time (TBUT). The results showed a significant positive correlation between screen time and astigmatism (r = 0.33, p < 0.001), suggesting that excessive screen use may contribute to the development of this refractive error. Regression analysis confirmed screen time as an independent risk factor. Additionally, TBUT had a negative correlation with screen time (r = -0.167, p < 0.001), indicating that increased digital exposure impairs tear film stability. This instability was linked to inflammatory conditions such as conjunctivitis and lid thickening. Children with these conditions had a higher risk of moderate to severe astigmatism, although the combination of lid thickening and screen time was not statistically significant. The study concludes that excessive screen time independently contributes to astigmatism and other ocular surface issues in children. It recommends reducing screen exposure and promoting regular eye examinations to safeguard children's visual development and prevent long-term vision problems.
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Why is it important?
This study is important because it sheds light on a growing public health concern: the impact of excessive screen time on children's eye development. With the increasing use of smartphones, tablets, and other digital devices from a very young age, children today are more exposed to screens than ever before. The research provides scientific evidence linking prolonged screen exposure with the development of astigmatism, a common but potentially serious refractive error that can affect a child’s vision, learning ability, and overall quality of life if left uncorrected. Moreover, the study identifies tear film instability, inflammatory conjunctivitis, and eyelid thickening as additional ocular issues associated with excessive screen use. These conditions can cause discomfort and visual disturbances and may lead to chronic eye problems if not addressed early. The finding that screen time is an independent risk factor means it alone can significantly contribute to visual impairments, even without other underlying causes. Understanding these risks is crucial for parents, educators, healthcare professionals, and policymakers. It encourages the development of practical preventive strategies—such as limiting screen time, encouraging outdoor activities, and scheduling regular eye checkups—to safeguard children's vision. Early intervention can prevent long-term vision problems, reduce the burden on healthcare systems, and ensure children have the visual ability needed for academic success and healthy development. In short, the study provides timely, evidence-based insights that support promoting healthier digital habits in children to protect their visual health in an increasingly screen-dominated world.
Perspectives
As someone deeply concerned about child health and development, I found this study both eye-opening and highly relevant in today’s digital age. Personally, I have observed how digital devices have become a central part of children's daily routines—from online classes to entertainment and even social interactions. While technology has its undeniable benefits, this study strongly reinforces my belief that we need to strike a healthier balance between screen time and other activities, especially during early childhood when visual systems are still developing. The link between excessive screen time and astigmatism is particularly concerning because many parents may not realise that visual impairments can subtly impact their child’s learning, concentration, and self-esteem. What resonated with me most was the finding that screen time is an independent risk factor, which means that even without a genetic predisposition, screen exposure alone can lead to vision problems. This raises an urgent need for awareness and preventive action. This study has also made me more mindful about promoting outdoor activities and reducing unnecessary screen use in my own surroundings—be it among family, friends, or future parenting decisions. It also highlights the importance of regular eye checkups, which many tend to overlook in young children unless a problem becomes obvious. In my opinion, this research is not just a clinical observation but a wake-up call for all of us to advocate for healthier screen habits in children to ensure they grow up with strong, unhindered vision and overall well-being.
Dr. Mutahir Shah
Lincoln University College
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Association of excessive screen time exposure with ocular changes leading to astigmatism in children, PLOS One, April 2025, PLOS,
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0317961.
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