A recent report highlighted a concerning trend: cases of myopia, or shortsightedness, are increasing among school-aged children in Fiji. Eye-care professionals attribute this rise to heightened screen time, decreased outdoor activity, and increased academic pressures. The situation has been further illuminated by findings from a nationwide eye-screening initiative conducted in 2025, which revealed that roughly one in ten children were diagnosed with refractive errors, resulting in blurred vision. Adults also showed a significant demand for vision correction, suggesting a broader public health issue.
Long periods spent on digital devices, without regular breaks or proper posture, have the potential to exacerbate eye strain and fatigue. While screens have been fingered as the primary culprit, experts emphasize that a combination of behavioral and environmental factors contributes to the worsening of vision among children.
Research published in Jama Network in 2025 suggests that prolonged near focus—such as reading or using devices at close range—puts strain on the eye’s accommodation system and is strongly linked to the progression of myopia. Additionally, reduced outdoor activity plays a significant role; natural light is essential for healthy eye development, and studies have indicated that every hour young people spend in front of screens correlates with an increased risk of developing shortsightedness. The Guardian has reported that experts recommend limiting children’s device usage and promoting more outdoor play.
Furthermore, poor ergonomic design and inadequate lighting are exacerbating the situation, leading to visual strain and musculoskeletal discomfort. Critically, it is the manner in which devices are utilized—considerations like viewing distance and lighting—that impact eye health much more than the blue light emitted from screens.
The convergence of rising screen usage, especially among urban schoolchildren, and the challenges in accessing eye care services in rural areas creates a pressing public health challenge. Despite the inevitability of screens in daily life, raising awareness and improving access to vision care is essential to mitigate the risk of avoidable vision problems.
To address these issues, health experts suggest practical measures for families, communities, and policymakers in Fiji:
– Limit continuous near-work by adhering to the 20-20-20 rule, encouraging breaks to reduce visual strain.
– Promote outdoor activities for children, aiming for at least three to four hours of outdoor exposure daily to slow myopia progression.
– Optimize ergonomics by ensuring screens are positioned at eye level and at a comfortable distance to reduce strain.
– Schedule regular eye examinations, particularly for children and individuals with a family history of myopia, facilitating early detection and intervention.
– Support community eye screening initiatives, especially in remote regions with limited access to clinics.
– Elevate awareness regarding eye health risks associated with a digital lifestyle while also addressing traditional risks such as cataracts and UV exposure, integrating eye care within broader health outreach efforts.
– Facilitate access to eye care services through mobile clinics and outreach programs, particularly for underserved communities.
As Fiji grapples with the implications of increasing myopia rates, there is also a glimmer of hope. Enhanced surveillance, emerging clinical interventions, and a renewed focus on screen usage could help stabilize these trends. For Fijian communities, it’s clear: while screens are an integral part of modern life, mindful usage, along with balanced outdoor activities, ergonomic practices, and accessible eye care, can pave the way for healthier vision in an increasingly digital world. With concerted efforts, Fiji can secure a brighter future for its visual health, even amidst the challenges of the digital age.