By Dr. Syed Yasir Mustafa

Every day, I see children holding books too close, squinting at the blackboard, or complaining of headaches after studying.

Their eyes tell a story of change, a silent shift in childhood that affects how they learn, play, and see the world around them.

By 2030, nearly half of the world's children could be nearsighted. That future is already starting to arrive in the valley.

This World Sight Day shines a light on childhood myopia, a condition that has grown from a minor concern into a serious global warning for parents, schools, and communities alike.

The cause is familiar. Screens dominate children's lives. Phones, tablets, and computers replace hours once spent running in courtyards or playing cricket under sunlight.

Their eyes are under constant strain, and the absence of natural light accelerates myopia.

Sunlight helps regulate normal eye growth, but indoor routines deprive children of this essential exposure.

Every hour spent indoors under artificial light is an hour lost in building healthy eyes.

Parents often notice problems only when children struggle with schoolwork or daily activities.

By then, the condition may have progressed, increasing the risk of long-term complications such as amblyopia, retinal detachment, or glaucoma.

Early detection is critical. I advise families to make annual eye exams a habit. Children who already wear glasses should have checkups every six months, while all others should be examined at least once a year.

Simple lifestyle adjustments can make a lasting difference. Limiting recreational screen time, encouraging at least two hours of outdoor activity every day, and ensuring proper lighting and posture while reading or studying protect developing eyes.

Diet is also important. Leafy greens, yellow fruits, and milk, rich in vitamins A and C, support eye health. Schools and healthcare providers must contribute through vision screenings and awareness programs, helping families act before problems arise.

The rising incidence of myopia signals that eye health must be a priority. That's why World Sight Day 2025 carries a clear message: children's vision matters today because it shapes tomorrow.

I tell parents repeatedly: reduce screen time, bring children closer to sunlight, and make vision care part of daily life.

Protecting children's eyes shapes how they learn, play, and engage with the world.

For a generation growing up indoors and online, reclaiming sunlight and healthy routines is the clearest prescription to secure their vision and future.

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