As we move into 2025, eye health concerns are evolving rapidly, driven by lifestyle changes, increasing screen dependence, and a growing burden of chronic diseases. Ophthalmologists across India are witnessing
a clear shift not only in the number of patients seeking care, but also in the age groups affected and the complexity of conditions being diagnosed. From digital eye strain and childhood myopia to age-related diseases like cataract, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy, preventive eye care has never been more critical. Dr. Sandhya E S, Consultant Ophthalmologist, Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital shares all you need to know:
Rising Digital Eye Strain: A Modern-Day Concern
Excessive screen time from smartphones, computers, and tablets has emerged as one of the leading causes of eye discomfort across all age groups. Digital eye strain commonly presents as dryness, burning sensation, headaches, blurred vision, and difficulty focusing.
Preventing digital eye strain requires conscious daily habits. The widely recommended 20-20-20 rule looking 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes helps relax eye muscles. Keeping screens at arm’s length, positioning them slightly below eye level, ensuring good lighting, reducing glare, and maintaining proper posture all play an important role in minimising strain on the eyes and neck.
Myopia on the Rise, Especially Among Children
Myopia (short-sightedness) is increasing at an alarming rate, particularly in children and adolescents. One of the primary reasons is prolonged “near work,” such as reading, mobile phone use, and computer activity, combined with reduced outdoor time and limited exposure to natural light.
Early screening is crucial for timely intervention. Educating parents and children about the importance of outdoor activity is a key preventive step. Medical interventions such as low-dose atropine eye drops used under specialist supervision can help slow the progression of myopia. In addition, myopia control spectacle lenses, which work by creating peripheral defocus, are increasingly being used to reduce excessive eye growth and prevent worsening vision in children.
Chronic and Age-Related Eye Conditions
India faces a significant burden of chronic eye diseases, many of which are preventable with early detection.
Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) remains one of the leading causes of preventable blindness. Due to the country’s large diabetic population, millions are at risk. The early stages of DR are often asymptomatic, resulting in delayed diagnosis. Annual dilated eye examinations are strongly recommended for all individuals with diabetes, even in the absence of visual complaints.
Cataract, characterised by clouding of the eye’s natural lens, continues to be one of the most common age-related conditions. Symptoms include blurred vision, glare, and poor night vision. The only definitive treatment is cataract surgery, which involves replacing the cloudy lens with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). Regular eye check-ups help detect cataracts at an early stage, allowing timely intervention.
Advancements in cataract surgery have transformed outcomes. Micro-Incision Cataract Surgery (MICS) uses incisions smaller than 2 mm, enabling faster healing and quicker visual recovery. Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (FLACS) further enhances precision by replacing manual steps with laser technology. Modern advanced IOLs, including toric lenses for astigmatism and multifocal or extended depth of focus (EDOF) lenses, can significantly reduce dependence on spectacles.
Glaucoma and Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) are chronic, sight-threatening conditions that often progress silently, causing irreversible vision loss if undetected. Regular comprehensive eye examinations especially after the age of 40 or in individuals with risk factors are essential for early diagnosis and disease control.
Equally important is the management of systemic health conditions. Diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol have a direct impact on eye health, and controlling these conditions plays a vital role in preserving vision.
The Way Forward
In 2025, eye care is no longer just about correcting vision, it is about prevention, early detection, and lifestyle awareness. Regular eye examinations, responsible screen habits, outdoor activity for children, and control of systemic diseases are the cornerstones of long-term eye health. With timely care and modern treatment options, many causes of vision loss can be prevented, ensuring healthier eyes across all stages of life.
