Myopia (nearsightedness) is becoming more common worldwide, and experts predict that by 2050, nearly 50% of the global population will have the condition. While genetics and screen time are well-known risk factors, a new study published in BMC Ophthalmology reveals another possible cause: secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure.

The Link Between Secondhand Smoke and Myopia

Children exposed to secondhand smoke are already at risk for asthma, respiratory infections, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Now, this study highlights that SHS exposure may also lead to early-onset myopia, increasing the chances of developing severe myopia later in life.

Study Findings: How Secondhand Smoke Affects Eye Health

A research team led by Yuchang Lu studied 232 children aged 5 to 10 years in China. The study divided them into two groups:

• 128 children exposed to secondhand smoke (SHS group)
• 104 children with no exposure to smoke (control group)

Researchers measured key eye health indicators, such as:
✅ Axial length (AL) – The length of the eyeball, which increases with myopia
✅ Spherical equivalent refraction (SER) – A measure of how much nearsightedness a person has

The study followed the children for 12 months and found that:
📌 The SHS group had a higher rate of myopia progression (-0.64 D/year vs. -0.47 D/year in the control group).
📌 Axial elongation (eyeball growth) was significantly higher in children exposed to secondhand smoke.
📌 Children with parental myopia and SHS exposure had the highest risk of developing early-onset myopia.

Why This Matters

This research confirms that secondhand smoke is not just harmful to the lungs—it can also affect vision. Since early-onset myopia increases the risk of high myopia and eye diseases like retinal detachment and glaucoma, preventing exposure to SHS can play a crucial role in protecting children’s eye health.

What Parents Can Do

👀 Avoid smoking around children – Keep homes and cars smoke-free.
👀 Encourage outdoor activities – More time outside can slow myopia progression.
👀 Regular eye check-ups – Early detection helps prevent severe vision issues.
👀 Educate caregivers and schools – Raise awareness about SHS risks.

Protect Your Child’s Vision—Act Now!

As doctors, parents, and caregivers, we must spread awareness about the hidden dangers of secondhand smoke. If you or someone you know smokes, take steps to protect children from exposure.

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