The Ministry of Health recommended on March 19 that parents encourage their children to spend at least two hours a day outdoors, saying exposure to natural light helps prevent vision problems such as myopia.
This advice comes amid concerns about an increase in childhood myopia, which specialists say is related to the growing use of electronic devices and less time spent outside. “Until a few years ago, myopia was an uncommon refractive defect in children, but now it is increasing due to the use of cell phones or tablets. And by not doing outdoor activities and receiving little natural light, necessary for visual development,” said Dr. Jesús Malpartida, pediatric ophthalmologist at the National Institute of Child Health San Borja.
Malpartida’s comments followed a recent visual health campaign called “Back to School Safely” held at the institute, where around 200 school-age children received free eye exams. More than half were found to have some type of vision problem, including myopia. The specialist advised that children should play sports and spend time in parks or other places with access to sunlight as this combination can help prevent eye diseases.
“In myopia, the eye grows more than normal. When myopia is very high and not treated promptly it can leave lifelong consequences,” Malpartida said. He added that modern treatments are available at the institute to slow down the progression of this condition during childhood.
Parents are encouraged to watch for signs such as children sitting too close to the television, squinting when looking at objects, or tilting their heads while trying to see clearly—behaviors that may indicate possible myopia and warrant a visit to an ophthalmologist. Reducing screen time is also important since close-up device use can cause additional issues like sleep disturbances, irritability, growth problems, and even addiction. A balanced diet rich in vitamin A from fruits and vegetables like carrots supports visual development but does not stop disease progression.
