ABSTRACT
Background: Myopia is a major health issue around the world. The World Health Organization estimates that half of the population of the world may be myopic by 2050. In the present years, insufficient time spent in outdoor activities has been recognized as a major risk factor for myopia development. The duration and intensity of near work are also associated with myopia progression. Aim(s): To study the increase in myopic shift in school going children during covid 19 pandemic due to increased screen time. Material(s) and Method(s): A prospective cross sectional study was done as a follow up after 2 years (in March 2021) from a school health survey done in May 2019. 150 students, of ages 7-15 were included and spherical equivalent refraction was recorded for each child and progression of myopia was documented in dioptres. Children wearing contact lenses, with h/o any ocular surgery and children with pathological myopia were excluded from study. Result(s): Out of 145 children called for follow up, only 123 children reported in the OPD for follow up. The mean refractive error(spherical equivalent) had increased by +2D in children of ages 7-10 and by +1D in children from ages 11-13 and somewhat remained constant in older ages. The parents reported an increase in time spent on digital devices and prolonged near work and all this had a positive correlation with an increase in myopic shift. Conclusion(s): Shorter viewing distance, increased screen time and lesser outdoor activities is also associated with myopia progression, especially in younger children. Younger children's refractive status may be more sensitive to environmental changes than older children, as they are in a more important period for myopic development and progression. Copyright © 2022, Dr Yashwant Research Labs Pvt Ltd. All rights reserved.