Is your child constantly squinting when reading or watching the TV? Or have you noticed a lot of blinking and eye rubbing?

These could be signs of myopia, the number 1 visual disability among Singaporeans. Fortunately, early detection and treatment can help slow its progression.

Associate Professor Audrey Chia, Head & Senior Consultant, Paediatric Ophthalmology & Adult Strabismus Department at Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC), a member of the SingHealth group, gives detailed answers to your questions.

Question by administrator

Is watching too much tv / or computer is one of the causes of childhood myopia?

Answered by Assoc Prof Audrey Chia, Head & Senior Consultant, Paediatric Ophthalmology & Adult Strabismus Department, Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC)

There is no direct evidence that watching too much tv or computer causes myopia, but there is good evidence that outdoor activity may be beneficial and anything that keeps children indoors may therefore cause an earlier onset of myopia.

Reposted by Administrator

When should we send our children for eye check? As early as 4? Thanks.

Answered by Assoc Prof Audrey Chia, Head & Senior Consultant, Paediatric Ophthalmology & Adult Strabismus Department, Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC)

In Singapore, most kindergartens check children’s vision from the age of 4 years so check with your kindergarten. If not, and you are concerned about your child’s vision, then you could bring him to the doctor or polyclinic for a check.

Question by andykongkl

My warmest greetings to you, Assoc Prof Chia. My 7-year-old daughter's visual acuity is 6/9 and 6/18. I read that a child's visual acuity is still developing, so I'm trying to improve her visual acuity to 6/6 by giving her tomatoes and wolfberries, and taking her outdoors. Is it possible to improve her visual acuity in these ways? What other ways are there to improve a child's visual acuity? I look forward, with earnest anticipation, to your reply. Thank you, Assoc Prof Chia. With best wishes Andy Kong

Answered by Assoc Prof Audrey Chia, Head & Senior Consultant, Paediatric Ophthalmology & Adult Strabismus Department, Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC)

Children aged 7 years should be able to see 6/6-9. You should take your child to see an eye doctor for a check. She may need glasses, and we should also check that she has nothing else wrong with her eyes.

Ref: L20