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Listen to Story India is witnessing a surge in eye-related problems among its young population. From digital eye strain to myopia, more people in their teens and twenties are experiencing vision issues that were once primarily seen in older adults. Experts have warned that excessive screen exposure , poor lifestyle habits, and environmental factors are driving this alarming trend.
DIGITAL SCREENS AND YOUNG EYES One of the biggest reasons for the rise in eye disorders is the increasing use of digital screens. Dr. Lalit Verma, president of the Asia Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology (APAO) 2025 Congress, called this a 'silent epidemic.
' He warned that hours spent watching reels and scrolling on smartphones are leading to dry eye syndrome, eye strain, myopia progression, and even early-onset squinting. "A student recently came to us with persistent eye irritation and blurry vision . After examination, we found that his eyes were not producing enough tears due to prolonged screen time.
He was immediately put on eye drops and advised to follow the 20-20-20 rule - taking a 20-second break every 20 minutes to look at something 20 feet away," Dr. Verma said, as quoted by news agency PTI. Dr.
Harbansh Lal, chairman of the Organising Committee and president of the All India Ophthalmological Society, further explains how short-form content, like reels, contributes to the problem. "These videos are designed to capture attention for long periods, reducing blink rates by 50%," Dr. Lal said.
Hours spent watching reels and scrolling on smartphones are leading to dry eye syndrome. (Photo: Getty Images) "This leads to dry-eye syndrome and accommodation spasms, which make it difficult for the eyes to shift focus between near and distant objects. If this habit continues unchecked, it could cause long-term vision problems and permanent eye strain," he added.
LIFESTYLE FACTORS WORSENING EYE HEALTH Beyond digital screens, lifestyle choices are also worsening eye health . Inactive habits, lack of outdoor activity, and unhealthy diets contribute to conditions like diabetic retinopathy, hypertensive retinopathy, and early cataract formation. Dr.
Ruchita Falera, consultant ophthalmologist at Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital, Bengaluru, pointed out that smoking and obesity increase the risk of severe eye diseases like glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration (an impairment of the central part of the retina). "A nutritious, balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids helps maintain good eye health. Quitting smoking and maintaining an active lifestyle can prevent diseases like cataracts and macular degeneration," she advised.
Urbanisation also plays a role. According to Mumbai-based ophthalmologist Dr. Minal Kanhere, urban populations face a higher prevalence of dry eye disease due to increased screen time and poor air quality.
A nutritious, balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids helps maintain good eye health. (Photo: Getty Images) "Pollutants like smoke and exhaust gases make allergic eye diseases more common . On the other hand, rural populations are more prone to infections and age-related diseases due to limited access to eye care services," he said.
MYOPIA AND OTHER EYE DISORDERS ON THE RISE One of the most concerning trends is the increasing number of young Indians developing myopia (nearsightedness). Dr. Lal stated that more children and teenagers are needing glasses earlier than ever before.
Studies predict that by 2050, over 50% of the world's population will be myopic. "In India, we now see fluctuations in lens prescriptions until the age of 30, whereas previously, this stabilised at 21," said Doctors are also noticing a rise in thyroid-related eye disorders, particularly among women, as well as autoimmune conditions like Sjogren’s syndrome and lupus, which can cause dry, inflamed eyes and vision changes. HOW TO MANAGE AND PREVENT EYE PROBLEMS While eye disorders are on the rise, experts stress that preventive measures can help protect vision .
Dr. Falera suggested regular eye check-ups, lifestyle modifications, and proper eye care as key solutions. Doctors are also noticing a rise in thyroid-related eye disorders, particularly among women, as well as autoimmune conditions like Sjogren’s syndrome and lupus.
(Photo: Getty Images) Some important steps to maintain eye health include: Early diagnosis and intervention are also critical. "Conditions like glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy can cause irreversible vision loss . Regular eye check-ups help detect these problems early and prevent severe complications," said Dr.
Kanhere. With more young Indians experiencing eye problems, there's a need for awareness and proactive care. Lifestyle changes and prioritising eye health among the younger generation can reduce the rising risk of long-term vision issues, doctors affirmed.
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