New Delhi: Air pollution may be significantly impairing the vision of children, a new study has warned. However, the research also offers a ray of hope, revealing that exposure to cleaner air can protect and even improve visual acuity, especially in younger children.
Researchers have identified a strong association between lower levels of specific air pollutants—namely nitrogen dioxide (NO?) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5)—and better uncorrected vision in children.
Their findings suggest that reducing exposure to these pollutants could slow the progression of myopia (short-sightedness), a condition characterized by blurred distance vision, which is increasing in prevalence, especially across East Asia.
Published in PNAS Nexus, the study emphasizes that, although genetic predisposition and lifestyle factors such as prolonged screen time are major contributors to myopia development, environmental factors—particularly air quality—also play a crucial role.
Employing advanced machine learning techniques, the research team analyzed the complex interactions between environmental, genetic, and lifestyle influences on children’s vision. Their data show that children residing in areas with cleaner air consistently exhibited superior visual acuity, even after controlling for other risk factors.
Primary school-aged children were found to be particularly vulnerable to the effects of air pollution, with notable improvements in uncorrected vision observed following reductions in pollutant exposure.
Conversely, older students and those with advanced myopia were less responsive to environmental improvements, indicating that genetic factors dominate in later stages of the condition. This underscores the importance of early intervention before myopia progresses to severe levels.
Professor Zongbo Shi of the University of Birmingham, co-supervisor of the study, stated: “While genetics and screen time have long been recognized as primary contributors to childhood myopia, our research is among the first to identify air pollution as a significant and modifiable risk factor.
“The benefits of clean air extend beyond respiratory health—they are essential for protecting children’s vision during critical periods of eye development.”
Air pollution is known to induce ocular inflammation and oxidative stress, diminish exposure to beneficial sunlight, and trigger biochemical changes in the eye that promote structural alterations linked to myopia.
The study advocates for practical measures such as installing air purifiers in classrooms, establishing “clean-air zones” around schools to limit traffic emissions, and restricting vehicle access during school drop-off and pick-up times. These interventions could substantially improve eye health by reducing pollutant exposure during the hours children spend at school.
Dr. Yuqing Dai, co-author from the University of Birmingham, remarked, “Myopia is rising globally and can lead to serious eye conditions later in life. Though genetic factors cannot be changed, environmental improvements can make a meaningful difference if implemented early.”
