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Seven out of 10 children in Europe will have myopia by 2050, driven by excessive use of electronic devices including mobile phones, tablets, gaming consoles and computers, according to a Greek medical expert.
Pediatric ophthalmologist Nikos Nitsas, president of the Thessaloniki Medical Association, made the prediction during a scientific discussion at the 89th Thessaloniki International Fair. The discussion focused on the impact of electronic games, the internet and mobile phones on children and adolescents.
“The only complaint we hear in our clinics from parents is, ‘Say something about mobile phones, say something about electronic devices. How many hours can children use them?’ This question from parents is a question of panic, because addiction is getting bigger and bigger,” Nitsas said.
The effects of excessive screen use fall into two categories: digital eye strain, affecting both children and adults, and direct correlation with myopia development due to continuous close focus on objects.
Pediatric neurologist Efterpi Pavlidou from the University of Ioannina noted that current usage far exceeds international guidelines.
While health organizations recommend zero screen time for children 0-2 years, 40-60% of infants use screens daily for 30-60 minutes. Usage increases to 4-6 hours for ages 2-6, and can reach 10 hours by age 13.