Visual problems increase in children and teenagers from Sancti Spiritus due to the use of electronic devices.

The excessive use of electronic devices, especially mobile phones, has led to a alarming increase in the number of children and adolescents with visual problems and refractive defects treated in the ophthalmology clinics in the province of Sancti Spíritus.

According to a report from the state-run radio station Radio Sancti Spíritus, the number of children and adolescents arriving at the ophthalmology consultations in Sancti Spíritus has recently doubled, due to the excessive use of electronic devices, which has raised concerns about the increase in disorders related to this habit.

Doctor Celia Isabel Alfonso Valdivia, a first-degree specialist in Comprehensive General Medicine and Pediatric Ophthalmology, pointed out that among the risks associated with the indiscriminate use of mobile devices are the development of disorders such as tunnel vision, computer vision syndrome, and myopia. These health issues are considered global concerns.

The doctor pointed out that it is common to see parents using tablets or cell phones to calm their children while waiting outside pediatric consultations, instead of opting for conventional toys.

This practice, according to him, significantly contributes to the increase in patients with refractive defects.

The specialist recommended that children should not spend more than two hours exposed to screens of mobile devices, as high-contrast images can affect the retina and the visual development of the eyes.

The state-run radio station boasted that currently experts from Sancti Spíritus are leading several investigations to accurately determine how many children and adolescents are suffering from eye and vision disorders due to the use of electronic devices in the province.

Finally, the specialist offered a series of recommendations, which include limiting exposure to electronic devices, taking 20-minute visual breaks, reducing screen brightness, and ensuring adequate lighting in the places where children are located.

Accessing prescription glasses has become a growing concern for Cubans, as prices have significantly increased at present.

According to sources consulted by CiberCuba, the price of a pair of glasses varies between 5,000 and 6,000 pesos, although it can be higher depending on the prescription. Bifocal lenses, for example, can reach up to 8,000 pesos.

The same rate applies when it comes to eyeglasses for children.

For several years now, the shortage affecting Cuba has reached state-owned opticians, where there are no frames or lenses for eyeglasses, forcing people to seek solutions in the informal market, where everything is imported and paid for in freely convertible currencies.