Analysis of the Dynamics of Myopia in Schoolchildren after Distance Learning During the COVID-19 Pandemic
In recent years, in our country and abroad, there has been a tendency to an increase in the frequency of myopia, acquiring the character of an epidemic in some countries. The restrictions associated with the coronavirus pandemic and constant contact with monitors negatively affect the vision of children, especially negative dynamics were noted in myopia. The purpose of the study. To analyze the dynamics of myopia in schoolchildren after distance learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and methods. An analysis of 500 outpatient records of patients with myopia was carried out. The age of children is from 7 to 13 years old. Spheroequivalent refractive indices and eye biometrics were analyzed. The data obtained were divided into two observation periods: I - before the 2018-2019 pandemic, II - during distance learning during the pandemic 2020-2021. Results. For all degrees of myopia, negative dynamics was observed in increasing the annual gradient of progression after the start of distance learning. Average duration of online lessons (r=-0.27, P<0.0001), number of online lessons per day (r=-0.33, P<0.0001), and digital screen exposure time (r=-0.20, P<0.0001) negatively correlated with the obtained refraction and the mean time spent outdoors. Conclusions. Increasing the length of time spent behind a digital screen contributes to the progression of myopia in children and adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is recommended to prescribe a stricter visual regime with breaks every 30-40 minutes and walk outside for at least 2 hours during daylight hours to prevent a myopia pandemic.