India’s Youth Are Losing Their Eyesight Faster Than Ever — Expert Reveals The Hidden Culprits (Image Credits: iStock)
In recent years, India has seen a concerning rise in vision problems among its younger population. From school students to young professionals, more and more people are complaining about blurred vision, eye strain, and other eye-related issues. Experts say the surge can be blamed on modern lifestyle habits, especially prolonged screen time, poor nutrition, and lack of outdoor activities.
“Problems pertaining to vision, especially among the youth, have spiked in recent years,” says Dr Priyanka Singh (MBBS, MS, DNB, FAICO), Consultant and Eye Surgeon at Neytra Eye Centre, New Delhi. “While genetics do play a role, the sharp increase in cases is largely due to external factors like screen exposure, indoor lifestyle, and poor diet,” she said.
Digital Devices Damaging Young Eyes
According to Dr Singh, excessive screen use is one of the biggest culprits. “The heavy use of computers, laptops, and phones for studying, working, and even entertainment is leading to immense strain on the eyes,” she explains. Young Indians are now spending several hours each day looking at screens, often without taking breaks. This can cause symptoms like headaches, eye strain, dryness, and even blurry vision.
Less Outdoor Time, More Eye Issues
Another key factor is the drop in physical activity, especially time spent outdoors. “Children and adolescents who regularly play outside are less likely to develop myopia (nearsightedness),” says Dr Singh. She adds that sunlight exposure and focusing on distant objects during playtime can support healthy eye development, something indoor activities fail to provide.
Poor Diet Taking a Toll
The shift towards processed foods and junk diets is also affecting eye health. “A balanced diet rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin A, and antioxidants is essential for maintaining good vision,” shares Dr Singh. However, many young people today miss out on these nutrients, putting them at risk for conditions like dry eyes and early-onset night blindness.
Risks of Decorative Contact Lenses And Cosmetic Eye Treatments
The use of decorative lenses and eye-enhancing cosmetic procedures has also increased, especially among the urban youth. Dr Singh warns, “These cosmetic trends often overlook the importance of proper hygiene and care. Improper use can lead to corneal damage, infections, and severe dryness.”
Pollution and Urban Eye Stress
India’s high pollution levels add to the problem. Prolonged exposure to polluted air, dust, and UV rays can cause irritation and increase infection risk. “People in cities frequently complain of persistent eye discomfort due to pollution,” says Dr Singh.
Protecting Your Eyes: Tips from the Expert
Dr Singh recommends several preventive steps to maintain healthy eyes:
Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
“If you are facing constant vision issues, don’t ignore them. Consult an eye specialist early,” she advises. Timely diagnosis and simple lifestyle changes can prevent long-term eye problems in the future.
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