In a new report, a leading eye surgeon has issued a warning about the increasing rates of near-sightedness, or myopia, among Gen Zers who spend excessive amounts of time staring at electronic devices. The surgeon, Dr. Joern Jorgensen from Laser Eye Clinic London, highlights the potential for a future epidemic of vision problems and even blindness if the trend continues.

According to the Daily Mail, the UK has seen a staggering 46% increase in myopia over the past three decades, while a study from California reports a shocking 59% spike among teenagers in the US. These alarming statistics indicate a global phenomenon, with Gen Zers facing significant risks of developing serious eye conditions due to a lack of natural sunlight exposure during their formative years.

Dr. Jorgensen explains that the shortage of dopamine, a neurotransmitter essential for maintaining healthy vision in daylight conditions, is a contributing factor. Spending time outdoors stimulates dopamine release, which inhibits the growth that causes short-sightedness. However, the rising reliance on screens and the amount of near work activities are impeding the necessary release of dopamine and leading to myopia.

"The situation is alarming, and what we are witnessing is an epidemic," warns Dr. Jorgensen. He emphasizes that while encouraging children to engage in outdoor activities and sports may help, it cannot reverse the implications of the significant role that social media and screen time play in their lives.

The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated the problem, with children being confined indoors and spending even more time focused on screens. Psychology Today reports that this has accelerated the global deterioration of eyesight. Studies in California and Sydney, Australia, support the notion that time spent outdoors is strongly linked to a reduced risk of myopia.

Dr. Maria Liu, an associate professor of clinical optometry at The University of California, Berkeley, highlights that children as young as 4 or 5 years old are now experiencing myopia. She stresses the importance of addressing the issue promptly to prevent future sight loss.

The World Health Organization estimates that by 2030, 40% of the global population will be nearsighted. The consequences of myopia extend beyond impaired vision, as serious cases increase the likelihood of developing conditions such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, retinal detachment, and cataracts. Treating these conditions poses a significant burden on healthcare systems, including the UK's National Health Service.

Dr. Irfan Jeeva from Pinderfields Hospital in Wakefield, West Yorkshire, points out that more young people are now in need of glasses due to their exposure to digital devices. The Global Myopia Awareness Coalition reports that 52% of children today spend less time playing outside compared to their parents' generation.

Efforts are being made to address this growing issue. Organizations like Myopia Focus have launched campaigns to raise awareness and secure increased funding from the NHS for the treatment of myopia in children. Optometrists and experts are urging parents to limit screen time and encourage their children to engage in outdoor activities to safeguard their visual health.

As the younger generation faces the risk of developing sight-threatening conditions linked to myopia at an unprecedented rate, the urgent need for governmental action becomes evident. Advocates are rallying for ministers to take immediate steps to combat this looming eye health crisis. The earlier interventions are initiated, the better the chances of preventing future sight loss in children.

In conclusion, the excessive screen time and lack of sunlight exposure among Gen Zers are contributing to a growing near-sightedness epidemic. Eye surgeons, healthcare professionals, and advocacy organizations are calling for increased awareness, funding, and governmental action to prevent future vision problems and the potential for blindness in younger populations.