In a new report, a leading eye surgeon has raised concerns about the growing epidemic of near-sightedness among Gen Zers, warning that if they continue to stay indoors and remain glued to their electronic devices, they may face a potential blindness crisis. The rates of near-sightedness, also known as myopia, have been skyrocketing globally, with a staggering increase of 46% in the UK over the past three decades and 59% among American teenagers, according to studies cited by the Daily Mail.

The report highlights that Zoomers, individuals born between the mid-1990s and mid-2010s, are at a heightened risk of developing severe vision problems, including blindness, as a result of missing out on natural sunlight during their crucial puberty years. Dr. Joern Jorgensen, a renowned eye surgeon at Laser Eye Clinic London, explains that the situation will exacerbate because Gen Zers are not receiving sufficient dopamine, a neurotransmitter critical for retinal function. Spending time in the sun boosts dopamine levels, while prolonged periods indoors result in a decrease of this neurotransmitter, leading to serious eye complications.

Moreover, the surging cases of myopia among young individuals are attributed to the excessive time spent staring at electronic devices, which are held just inches away from the face. Dr. Jorgensen emphasizes the importance of outdoor activities and sports, as they trigger a chemical process that releases dopamine. However, reversing the damage caused by social media and excessive screen time may prove challenging.

The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated the global trend toward worsening eyesight, as children were compelled to stay indoors and rely heavily on screens for education and entertainment, according to an article in Psychology Today. Research conducted in California and Sydney, Australia, has demonstrated a strong link between time spent outdoors and a reduced risk of near-sightedness.

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 developing myopia earlier due to increased screen time and a lack of sunlight exposure. The World Health Organization predicts that by 2030, 40% of the global population will be nearsighted.

Serious cases of myopia among young people increase the chances of developing macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness, by 41%, according to studies cited by the Daily Mail. This poses a significant burden on healthcare systems, such as the UK's National Health Service (NHS), where treating age-related macular degeneration is costly. Dr. Jorgensen warns that serious myopia also heightens the risk of other eye conditions like glaucoma and retinal detachment.

Dr. Irfan Jeeva from Pinderfields Hospital in Wakefield, West Yorkshire, highlights that more youngsters require glasses due to their extensive exposure to digital devices. He stresses the far-reaching effects of screen time on visual, mental, physical, and emotional health. The Global Myopia Awareness Coalition reports that 52% of children play outside less than their parents did when they were young.

Awareness campaigns and petitions are calling for increased funding from healthcare systems like the NHS to tackle the rising issue of short-sightedness among children. Experts emphasize the need for early intervention to minimize the risk of future vision loss. As a preventive measure, professionals recommend limiting screen time and encouraging children to engage in outdoor activities to promote a healthy vision.

In conclusion, the increasing prevalence of near-sightedness among Gen Zers is a growing concern, with experts warning of a potential vision crisis, including the risk of blindness. Excessive screen time and a lack of exposure to natural sunlight are major contributing factors. Urgent action is needed to address this issue, including limiting screen time, promoting outdoor activities, and allocating resources to provide appropriate eye care for young individuals.