70% of Students Battle Eye Problems, 22% Stuck with Wrong Prescription Glasses

A silent vision crisis is sweeping through India’s schoolchildren, with 70% grappling with eye problems that threaten their academic and personal growth. Even more concerning, 22% of children who wear glasses are using incorrect prescriptions, amplifying their struggles. 

A Growing Vision Crisis

Recent surveys reveal that 70% of school-going students suffer from vision issues like myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. The surge is largely attributed to prolonged screen time from smartphones, tablets, and online classes, coupled with limited outdoor activity. Poor classroom lighting and reading in low-light conditions further strain young eyes. Symptoms such as blurred vision, frequent headaches, and difficulty focusing are increasingly common, often impacting students’ concentration and performance in school. Without timely intervention, experts warn, these issues could lead to permanent vision damage.

The Problem of Wrong Prescriptions

Shockingly, 22% of children wearing glasses are using lenses with incorrect power, exacerbating their vision problems. Outdated prescriptions, often unchanged for years, or glasses purchased without professional consultation are to blame. This leads to symptoms like eye fatigue, dizziness, and worsening eyesight. Many parents, unaware of the need for regular eye checkups, rely on quick fixes from unregulated vendors, putting children at risk. Pediatric ophthalmologists stress that improperly fitted glasses can hinder academic progress and cause long-term eye strain.

Causes and Contributing Factors

The digital age is a major culprit, with children spending hours daily on screens, reducing blink rates and causing digital eye strain. Limited outdoor time, which studies show helps prevent myopia, compounds the issue. Nutritional deficiencies, particularly in vitamin A, also play a role. Additionally, inadequate vision screening in schools means many cases go undetected until symptoms are severe.

Call for Action

Addressing this crisis requires immediate steps. Schools must implement mandatory annual eye screenings and educate parents on the importance of professional checkups. Reducing screen time, encouraging outdoor play, and ensuring proper classroom lighting are critical. Parents should prioritize regular visits to certified optometrists to ensure accurate prescriptions. By acting swiftly, we can protect the vision and future of India’s young generation.