Study: Nearsightedness up 59% in teens from potential screentime
When I think back to my childhood, my memories seem to be of me playing in my backyard, in a park, or somewhere outside. I hardly spent any time indoors….
Date: July 18, 2006 Slug: p-screening assignment # 182264 Photographer: Gerald Martineau Shaw Jr. High – DC Free eye and hearing tests for kids sponsored by The Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan D.C. and the D.C. Public School system’s Educational Audiologists. Marcy Babitz assists Thomas Williams, 9, as he does a basic eye test. (Photo by Gerald Martineau/The The Washington Post via Getty Images)
(Photo by Gerald Martineau/The The Washington Post via Getty Images)When I think back to my childhood, my memories seem to be of me playing in my backyard, in a park, or somewhere outside. I hardly spent any time indoors. I was always outside playing with my pogo stick, clicking clacks, or riding my bike until the streetlights came on. Nowadays, as I watch my nieces and nephews grow up, it seems like a lot of kids are glued to their screens. You may think that playing video games or kids chatting on social media is pretty harmless but, we are now told this screen time is causing some real concerns.
A study found in an article in The Daily Mail is shedding light on a potential eye health crisis happening among today's children. There is a sharp increase in nearsightedness, known as myopia. Myopia rates have gone up 59% among teenagers! This is an alarming statistic because, according to Dr. Joern Jorgensen, it could lead to other serious eye conditions such as glaucoma and retinal detachment. This is much more serious than needing thicker glasses.
The Causes
You may be wondering why these numbers have increased rapidly. Experts are pointing fingers at two main culprits. Keep in mind, that everyone needs natural sunlight. It turns out that spending time outdoors and soaking up some sunshine is crucial for our eyes. Sunlight helps our retinas produce dopamine, which is like a happy chemical for our eyes. If kids are cooped up inside all day staring at their screens, they are missing out on this natural chemical boost.
The other issue is that kids today are doing a lot of "near work". Reading, studying, or scrolling through social media constantly affects our kids' eyes. When our eyes are stuck in this close-up mode for hours on end, it is not good for them. Dr. Joern Jorgensen, one of the experts behind the study, says that while we can encourage kids to get outside and play more, it might not be enough to reverse the damage that's already been done.
Let this be a wake-up call for parents and even kids themselves. Especially since we just learned that it's not just a matter of needing to squint harder but, it's a real health concern. We need to find a balance between screen time and outdoor playtime. From experience, nothing beats a good old-fashioned game of catch or a bike ride in the sunshine. Let's keep those eyes healthy and happy!
Trendy, Cheap Spring Break Destinations
Spring break always arrives at just the right time. It's when the holiday cheer has totally worn off, and it's also right when spring is around the corner but it's not quite here yet. I remember loving spring break in school. But, even if you're not in school or college anymore, why not take a fun spring break trip this year? If you have a family, all the more reason to do it. If you're solo, that works, too. Thankfully, there are plenty of trendy, cheap spring break destinations available.
If you want to get the most bang for your buck, as they say, stay close to home. It doesn't have to be a staycation. But, why not travel to a town that you've never been to that's within road trip distance? Of course, if you live in a cold climate, you might want to travel to a hot spot. The good news is that a lot of warm spring break destinations have great rates, because tourist is simply their business. So, if you go to a popular spring break spot, chances are they'll have some good deals and be able to cut you a good deal due to just how many people who travel there each year.
The perfect spring break destination is really about getting away from it all. You want a place that fun and exciting. But, you also want a spot that really helps you break away from routine and, hopefully, your electronic devises. Another bonus is if you find a spring break destination near friends who you maybe haven't seen in a while. It can be a really fun trip to find a central location and meet up with long-lost friends.
Read on for some trendy, cheap spring break destinations in the United States. Here's hoping for a super fun spring vacation. Oh, these work for summer, too.
Atlantic City, New Jersey
Vegas can be fun, but Atlantic City offers that fun of Vegas on the East Coast. You can enjoy the entertainment and other activities the city has to offer. You can also explore the boardwalks and beaches.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
If you want a more traditional spring break, try Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. It's one of the hottest spring break destinations in the United States. It's also a pretty reasonable trip, with good, fairly inexpensive lodging options.
Orlando, Florida
It might seem trite, but going to Orlando, Florida, for spring break is really tops. Orlando has some of the best deals you'll find, since they are obviously such a major tourist destination. And, there's Disney World. Enough said.
Macon, Georgia
Sure, Atlanta, Georgia is a big tourist spot. But, if you want to try something new, Macon is a growing hotspot. Macon offers a revitalized downtown area, with lots of shopping and activities for families. The city also has a vibrant music scene. What's not to love?
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
There's nothing wrong with a little education on your spring break, right? Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, has a rich history. It's known for that history and rich historical content. Really exploring Philly can be a great way to spend a spring break.
Detroit, Michigan
Detroit is super hot, thanks to their Lions doing so well in the NFL this season. The Motor City has been splashed on the screen during playoff games, and people are starting to see the beauty of this city. The Detroit River is gorgeous in the springtime. There's lots to do in Detroit, too, from the Henry Ford Museum to GreenField Village to live music.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas, Nevada, offers a fun, wild (if you want it to be) spring break destination. The weather is usually good in the springtime, and there's always lots to do. Hit up the casinos or check out one of Vegas' many live shows.
Charlotte, North Carolina
Charlotte, North Carolina, is a unique spot to pick for a spring break. We mean unique in a good way. The Queen City offers lots of breweries, historical areas and scenic views. It can be a low-key but fun spring trip destination.
