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Billions of people around the world suffer from nearsightedness or farsightedness. People suffering from this condition have difficulty concentrating on distant objects. This is a common vision problem and often requires glasses or contact lenses to improve vision. According to a 2021 study published by India Today, more than half of the world's population is expected to be nearsighted by 2050. This condition can cause serious eye problems, so it is important to take precautions. Although there is no specific treatment for this condition, you can protect your vision with simple protective measures. “Natural light is very important for healthy eye development, especially in children, as it regulates the release of dopamine, which controls eye growth and prevents myopia,” says Dr. Sabita Arun, senior consultant at Nesrahama Eye Specialist Hospital, Bangalore. Outdoor activity, especially during the day, is essential for healthy eye development.

Here are some preventive measures:

1. Protect your eyes from sunlight: Sunlight exposure can damage your eyes. Wearing the right sunglasses can block harmful UV rays and reduce the risk of nearsightedness. Polarized glasses are best for protection.

2. Do not use the screen: Prolonged use of the screen can cause dry eyes, blurred vision, headaches, and even eye fatigue. Experts recommend looking at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes.

3. Give your eyes a break from books: Just like a screen, reading a book for a long period of time can cause nearsightedness. Stick to the 20-minute rule and set an alarm to remind yourself when you're too busy.

4. Get some fresh air: To reduce the risk of myopia, young and old alike should spend time outdoors. Children who spend time outdoors are less likely to develop this disease, but adults can spend time in the park or go for a walk, which can have a positive impact on their eye health.

5. Avoid rubbing your eyes: Dry eyes may make you want to rub your eyes, but doing so can cause blurry or blurry vision. On the other hand, the bacteria on your hands can cause more damage. Instead, use eye drops to clean your eyes.