June 24th

By Mutt Mulligan

Study: time outside reduces short-sightedness in kids

Myopia – also known as short-sightedness or near-sightedness – is a growing global problem. It is estimated that on average 30% of the world is currently short-sighted. Based on current trends, almost 50% will be myopic by 2050. (Read more about the global growth of near-sightedness.)

Irish researchers think they’ve cracked the case for short-sightedness in kids. They have concluded that children who spend time outdoors during the daylight hours are less likely to be short-sighted. The Ireland Eye Study was conducted by researchers at Technological University Dublin. It confirms that short-sightedness is actually influenced by a person’s environment, not just genetics. The study was conducted on over 1,600 students and has been published in the Journal of Clinical and Experimental Optometry.

Scientists recommend that children spend at least two hours outside during the daytime each day to combat a global increase in short-sightedness. This is just one more reason to adopt TurfMutt’s suggestion to be an “outsider” with your family. What are your plans for getting outside today?

Learn more about how our living landscapes impact our health and well-being by checking out the Living Landscapes Fact Book.