Chennai Eye Specialist Warns of Rising Myopia Cases Linked to Indoor Lifestyles

An increase in myopia cases among children, students, and working professionals in Chennai over the past decade has been driven by indoor, screen-heavy lifestyles and a lack of exposure to natural sunlight, according to a local eye specialist. The trend has led to a rising "myopia generation" of individuals who are unable to see distant objects clearly.

Dr. Sharmi Bharathi, a consultant ophthalmologist at Dr. Agarwals Eye Hospital in Chennai, warned that modern lifestyles have drastically reduced people's contact with nature. With the rise of e-learning and digital professions, both students and working professionals are spending hours staring at monitors and screens indoors.

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a condition where the eyeballs become too long or too curved, causing light rays to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it. While genetic factors play a role, Dr. Bharathi noted that the condition is significantly aggravated by a lack of outdoor activity.

Scientific studies show that spending time outdoors promotes the production of dopamine in the body. This chemical helps slow down the elongation of the eyeballs, reducing the likelihood of developing myopia. Without outdoor exposure, individuals lose this natural protection.

To combat the rising cases, Dr. Bharathi recommended spending one to two hours a day outside. Even playing or resting in the shade can provide sufficient ambient sunlight exposure while avoiding harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays.

Additionally, the specialist recommended that individuals take regular breaks from work, maintain an appropriate reading distance, ensure good illumination in rooms, undergo regular eye check-ups, and limit screen time for children. Dr. Bharathi also called on educational institutions and workplaces in Chennai to create environments that facilitate physical activity and restrict screen usage.