The Rise in Myopia: Lifestyle, Screens, and Genetic Factors

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is increasing globally, particularly among children and young adults. Although genetics play a role, a growing body of evidence points to lifestyle factors – specifically increased near work and reduced time outdoors – as major contributors. This article examines the complex interplay of these factors and explores recent findings on the impact of screen time and environmental influences on vision.

The Role of Genetics and Lifestyle

According to Dr. Sandrine Hick, an ophthalmologist at Liège University Hospital, genetics are a significant factor in the development of myopia. Sandrine Hick’s research highlights that, beyond genetic predisposition, modern lifestyle habits are fundamentally linked to the rising prevalence of nearsightedness. Natural light is believed to slow the progression of visual impairment.

The Impact of Reduced Outdoor Time

A key concern is the decreasing amount of time children spend outdoors. As children spend more time indoors, they are more likely to engage in close-up activities like reading, using smartphones, and playing tablets. This sustained focus on near objects can contribute to the development and progression of myopia.

Is Screen Time to Blame?

While concerns about screen time are prevalent, Dr. Hick emphasizes that the screen itself isn’t the primary problem. Rather, it’s the increase in prolonged close work and the resulting deficit in stimuli for distance vision. The pandemic, with its associated lockdowns, exacerbated this issue by combining record screen time with drastically reduced outdoor activities.

Global Trends: The Far East

The increase in myopia is particularly noticeable in East Asian countries like Japan and Korea. This phenomenon is attributed to a combination of genetic factors and intense educational pressures. Students in these regions often begin school at a young age, spend limited time outdoors, and dedicate significant hours to near-vision tasks like reading and studying.

Sandrine Hick’s Practice Information

Dr. Sandrine Hick practices ophthalmology at multiple locations:

• CHU Sart Tilman Liège: 04/323 57 22 (option 1 then 5)
• Cabinet Prijot, 15 quai Churchill, 4020 Liège: 04/343 35 61
• Cabinet privé à Charneux, wadeleux 407, 4654 Charneux: 087/33 40 33

Online appointments are available exclusively for the Charneux location. More information can be found on Dr. Hick’s website.

Consultation Details and Appointment Scheduling

Dr. Hick offers consultations on the following days:

• Monday mornings: Private practice in Charneux
• Monday afternoons: Cabinet Prijot in Liège
• Tuesday mornings & afternoons: CHU Sart Tilman
• Wednesday mornings & afternoons: Private practice in Charneux
• Thursday mornings & afternoons: CHU Sart Tilman
• Friday afternoons (half-day): Cabinet Prijot in Liège
• Saturday mornings (half-day): Cabinet Prijot in Liège

Latest patient appointments are limited, except for surgical consultations. Appointments for myopia, corneal, or cataract surgery can be scheduled through specific channels:

• CHU: By phone, specifying the reason for the consultation
• Cabinet Prijot: By phone or through MyConsultation
• Charneux: By phone or online, selecting “RDV avis opératoire myopia”

Patients considering laser correction for myopia (typically those under 45) are advised to avoid contact lenses for five days prior to their appointment.

The Role of the CHU de Liège

Dr. Hick is affiliated with the CHU de Liège (Liège University Hospital), a major academic hospital in Belgium. The CHU de Liège is a public and pluralistic hospital and one of the seven academic hospitals in Belgium.