1. You read:
2. Homepage
3. Advisory
4. The number of children suffering from myopia is increasing

The number of children suffering from myopia is increasing

Vision is one of the most important human senses, and its proper development in childhood is crucial for a child’s overall growth. Eye diseases that are not diagnosed and treated in time can lead not only to permanent visual problems but also to learning difficulties, poor concentration, and a lower quality of life.

In recent years, there has been a significant rise in the number of children suffering from myopia (short-sightedness). According to the latest statistics, the number of children diagnosed with this condition in the Czech Republic has increased by almost 30% over the past ten years. The main contributing factors include. 

• Excessive screen time (mobile phones, tablets, computers)
• Lack of exposure to natural daylight
• Genetic predisposition

“Studies confirm that prolonged focusing on close-up objects affects visual development in children. The eyes receive a signal to grow, the eyeball elongates, and the risk of myopia increases. In contrast, spending time outdoors and looking into the distance does not stimulate eye growth and supports healthy vision development,” explains Andrea Janeková, from Eye Centre Prague.

Myopia is not only a cosmetic and practical issue—it also increases the risk of other eye diseases such as retinal detachment, macular degeneration, or glaucoma.

Early diagnosis: When should a child see an eye specialist?

Children’s vision develops until around the age of 7–8, so it is essential to detect any abnormalities as early as possible. The following preventive examinations are recommended:

• Newborn screening – performed in maternity hospitals, testing the red reflex to detect common congenital issues like cataracts
• Check-ups with a pediatrician – during routine visits at ages 3 and 5
• Eye examination before starting school – ensures the child can see the board properly
• Further examinations during school years – if any problems arise (headaches, lack of focus, poor concentration)

“If there is a family history of more serious eye disorders, we recommend the first vision screening at 6 months of age and regular follow-ups every six months. The goal is to prevent amblyopia (lazy eye), which occurs when the brain receives a blurry image from one eye over a long period and starts suppressing it. This process affects not only visual acuity but also depth perception and coordination between the eyes. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial, as amblyopia cannot be fully corrected after the age of 7–8,” explains Dr Janeková.

How to protect children’s eyesight

There are several ways to prevent the development of eye diseases in children:

• Limit screen time – A healthy balance should be maintained between digital activities and physical play or rest
• Spend time outdoors regularly – Daylight helps prevent myopia
• Proper lighting – Ensure adequate lighting during reading and writing to avoid unnecessary eye strain
• Balanced diet – Foods rich in vitamins A, C, E, and omega-3 fatty acids support eye health
• Watch for warning signs – In toddlers, look out for frequent squinting, head tilting, eye rubbing, or stumbling. In school-aged children, headaches, fatigue, or inattentiveness at school may be signs of vision problems
• Prevention – If parents notice anything unusual, they should promptly consult an eye specialist for a thorough examination

“Prevention and early diagnosis of eye diseases are key to healthy visual development. Regular eye check-ups and attentive parents can help prevent the progression of serious conditions that could negatively impact quality of life in adulthood,” concludes Andrea Janeková, MD, Deputy Chief Doctor at Eye Centre Prague.

Protecting children’s vision should be a priority for every family. With proper prevention and timely diagnosis, we can help children see the world clearly and without difficulty.