A 5-year-old boy in China suffered a rapid and alarming decline in his eyesight within just one year, attributed to prolonged addiction to mobile games and screen time. Doctors revealed that the black part of his eyeballs had significantly shrunk, while the white areas of his eyes increased abnormally — a sign of severe eye damage rarely seen in such young children.
After a thorough medical examination, the boy was diagnosed with advanced myopia accompanied by astigmatism and amblyopia. Unfortunately, experts warn that his chances of vision recovery are very slim due to the severity of the condition.
The Impact of Screen Time on Young Eyes
According to reports, the child, referred to as “Xiao Ming”, developed this condition after spending three to four hours daily on tablets and smartphones during home quarantine in the pandemic. Even after restrictions eased, he continued this excessive screen use habit.
It was only about six months later that his mother and kindergarten teacher noticed his vision deteriorating, prompting a hospital visit. The boy’s myopia was measured at a staggering 600 degrees.
Eye specialists warn that long hours staring at screens up close can cause irreversible damage to developing eyes. Prolonged exposure at an early age not only increases the risk of myopia but also predisposes children to serious conditions like glaucoma and retinopathy later in life.
Another Case Highlights Parental Influence
Another 5-year-old boy, “Junjun”, was brought to hospital by his parents after they noticed his frequent eye rubbing and occasional squinting. Upon examination, doctors discovered one pupil was smaller and the boy exhibited fixed strabismus, or crossed eyes, caused by severe deformation of eye muscles.
Junjun’s eye problems were largely linked to unhealthy visual habits influenced by his parents, who themselves frequently used mobile devices. From watching his father’s live game streams for hours, to eventually getting his own phone, Junjun’s screen time skyrocketed. His mobile phone replaced traditional toys, outdoor play, and even cartoons. Within a year, this led to serious vision impairment and eye muscle issues.
Expert Advice for Parents on Managing Children’s Screen Time
Ophthalmologists and child development specialists stress that children’s visual systems are highly sensitive during early growth. Excessive exposure to screen light can cause dry eyes, eye strain, and structural changes that lead to myopia and other sight problems.
Experts recommend parents avoid using mobile devices as a pacifier or babysitter, limit children’s screen time, and lead by example by reducing their own device use. Setting clear rules on when and how children can use electronic devices is vital.
In addition, encouraging daily outdoor activities and social play can significantly benefit children’s eye health and overall physical development.
Maintaining close parent-child bonds through storytelling and conversations can reduce children’s emotional dependence on digital screens, fostering healthier habits and relationships.