[Health In News] <h1 dir="ltr" data-pm-slice="1 1 []"> By Dr. Sangwon Kim, Director of Yonsei Sungmo Eye ClinicBucheon, South Korea_Smartphones have transcended their role as mere communication devices, becoming indispensable tools for work, leisure, learning, and shopping. Yet, beneath this convenience lies a health concern that is often overlooked: retinal disease, once primarily associated with older adults, is increasingly affecting younger generations in their 20s and 30s. Medical experts are sounding the alarm about the link between prolonged smartphone use and eye health, particularly retinal disorders.

The retina, a critical part of the eye, detects light and converts it into visual signals. Any damage to this area can lead to blurred or distorted vision and, in severe cases, blindness. Historically, conditions like macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy were considered age-related, predominantly affecting those over 50, especially in their 60s and 70s. However, eye clinics are now seeing a rise in younger patients reporting symptoms of retinal issues, such as vision loss, distorted images, or floaters (small specks drifting across the field of vision). At the root of this trend is the hours-long daily use of smartphones.

photo=Sangwon Kim, Director of Yonsei Sungmo Eye Clinic
photo=Sangwon Kim, Director of Yonsei Sungmo Eye Clinic
The adverse effects of smartphones on the retina stem from multiple factors. Staring at a screen up close for extended periods strains the eye muscles, leading to fatigue. Additionally, the blue light emitted by smartphone screens is known to cause retinal stress. Dr. Sangwon Kim, director of Yonsei Sungmo Eye Clinic, explains: “Blue light, a high-energy visible light with a wavelength slightly longer than ultraviolet, can suppress melatonin production when exposed at night, disrupting circadian rhythms. Some studies suggest that long-term exposure may cause subtle damage to retinal cells.”

The problem is exacerbated by the fact that smartphone use often occurs at night, in dim environments. In dim environments, the pupil dilates to capture more light, making the retina more vulnerable to the intense blue light from screens viewed at close range. This places significant strain on the eyes.

Prolonged screen time in low-light conditions can also accelerate myopia progression. High myopia is a major risk factor for serious retinal conditions, such as retinal detachment and macular degeneration.

While avoiding smartphones entirely isn’t realistic in today’s world, there are ways to protect eye health. The most fundamental practice is using smartphones in well-lit environments. Keeping ambient lights on, adjusting screen brightness to match surrounding conditions, and enlarging text size can reduce eye strain. Taking breaks to look at distant objects helps relax the eye’s focusing muscles, while consciously blinking more frequently can prevent dry eyes and maintain ocular surface health.

Regular eye checkups are essential. Retinal diseases often present no early symptoms, meaning that by the time abnormalities are noticed, the condition may have advanced significantly. Only specialized equipment can detect subtle retinal changes, making periodic examinations the most reliable way to safeguard vision.

Smartphone use is an unavoidable part of modern life, but adopting mindful habits and prioritizing preventive care can help preserve eye health. Avoiding smartphone use in dark settings is critical, as it directly impacts the retina. Consistently practicing habits that reduce eye strain is key to long-term vision protection.

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