Increased computer use has led to increased rates of myopia
the verdict
CONTESTED
the evidence cuts both ways
confidence 37/100
While multiple systematic reviews and meta-analyses link screen time and computer use to an increased prevalence of myopia, other studies and reviews find conflicting evidence or no significant association once confounding factors like outdoor time and genetics are controlled.
Evidence for · 6
Is Increased Screen Time Associated with a Higher Prevalence of Myopia in Elementary-aged Children Globally?
2025 · cited by 0
Most studies reviewed show a positive correlation between increased screen time and myopia prevalence.
Evidence against · 2
Prevalence of Myopia Among Schoolchildren and the Impact of Increased Screen Time: A Systematic Review.
2024 · cited by 0
A systematic review found that overall evidence did not support a significant association between screen time and myopia in school children.
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More for · 5
Screen Time and Myopia-Related Outcomes in European Children: A Systematic Review
2026 · cited by 0
Systemic review notes an association between screen-related behaviours and myopia-related outcomes.
The association between screen time exposure and myopia in children and adolescents: a meta-analysis.
2024 · cited by 0
Meta-analysis found a statistically significant correlation between screen time and myopia, especially with computer use.
Association between digital smart device use and myopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
2021 · cited by 0
Smart device screen time was significantly associated with myopia in a meta-analysis.
Progression of Myopia in School-Aged Children After COVID-19 Home Confinement.
2021 · cited by 0
COVID-19 home confinement with increased screen time and less outdoor time was associated with a myopic shift in young children.
Prevalence and risk factors of myopia among children and adolescents in Hangzhou.
2024 · cited by 0
Prolonged exposure to electronic screens was identified as a risk factor for myopia among students.
More against · 1
Myopia in Bulgarian school children: prevalence, risk factors, and health care coverage.
2022 · cited by 0
Screen time was not found to be associated with increased odds of myopia when accounting for other risk factors in a study of Bulgarian children.