GUANGZHOU: Too much time spent using electronic devices like computers, mobile phones, TVs and electronic games can lead to eye problems in children, according to eye specialists.

"Running alongside genetic transmission and unhealthy diet, long-term exposure to electronic screens for TVs, computers and mobile phones causes either short or long sight damage to children," said Hu Qunying, director of the ophthalmology department at the First Affiliated Hospital under the Guangzhou Medical Institute.

Hu made the comments at an eye health forum yesterday marking annual National Sight Day.

"Children today indulge too much in playing computer games. On the way home, they use mobile phones to send text messages. But they ignore the fact that long-term exposure to electronic screens will put tremendous strain on their eyes," Hu said.

Eye strain, which can lead to shortsightedness, has become a serious child health issue, Hu said.

Sources from the Guangzhou municipal educational bureau indicated that the number of students suffering from shortsightedness has been rising in recent years in Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong Province.

They said shortsightedness among primary, middle and high school students currently stands at 26.9 percent, 53.4 percent and 72.8 percent respectively.

"The increasing number of shortsighted students should be tackled through eye-care projects that begin from an early age," said Kuang Bao, an ophthalmologist at the Guangzhou No 1 Hospital.

Kuang suggested children go to hospital for regular eye check-ups and do more outdoor exercise.

"Children should try to better allocate time for using their computers, mobile phones and TVs. But we find it hard to persuade them to do this," Kuang said.

Kuang said regular checkups are of great importance to protect eyesight. "Moreover, exercise can keep your eyes from being damaged by heavy use of electronic screens," Kuang said.

"Students should go for eye checkups at least once every six months to detect eye problems earlier," Kuang said.

Kuang also pointed out that children suffering from shortsightedness should go to hospital for a medical checkup before they turn to glasses.

"Some parents go out and buy glasses without consulting doctors. But inappropriate use of glasses will lead to more serious damage to the eyes. It is a must for them to seek help from a hospital," Kuang said.

(China Daily 06/07/2007 page5)