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Optometrist finds no evidence computer use by children leads to myopia.

Canada's Canwest News reports that the Internet abounds with articles allegedly written by eye-care professionals stating that many ophthalmologists believe increased computer use by children puts them at risk for early development of nearsightedness, or myopia.

In fact, these same articles draw little or no difference between myopia, in which far vision is permanently diminished and must be corrected with lenses or laser surgery, and a temporary condition called computer vision syndrome (CVS).

Optometrist Eric DesGroseilliers, O.D., of the Ottawa Optometric Clinic, pointed out that, in over 12 years of practice, during which he has examined the eyes of four to five children a day, he has been unable to attribute any increases in myopia to computer use. Instead, he believes any recent increase in myopia diagnoses is likely because parents are better educated about eye health, and children receive professional eye care earlier. CVS, however, is a temporary discomfort caused by prolonged computer use. Eye strain, headaches, temporary blurred vision, and other complaints make up the symptoms of CVS, but in general they are not considered that serious.

Posted in: computer vision syndrome, myopia progrression