A study in Japan found that individuals who spend 9 hours or more daily in front of a computer screen have twice the risk of developing glaucoma compared to low and moderate users. Myopic patients are particularly at high risk, and severe glaucoma patients face the danger of blindness.

Doctors from the Toho University School of Medicine surveyed approximately 10,000 employees from four Japanese companies. The results revealed that 522 employees had visual problems, accounting for 5.1% of the total. Most high-usage users were found to have hyperopia and myopia, predominantly males and younger individuals, with one-third of high-usage users suspected of having glaucoma.

Further research indicated a significant correlation between prolonged computer use and glaucoma in myopic individuals. Researchers have yet to determine the exact reason but believe that the optic nerves of myopic individuals are more susceptible to the stress from computer use than those with normal vision. Researchers suggest that in the next 10 years, medical professionals should pay attention to the myopia and visual problems of individuals who use computers for extended periods. Dr. Wright, the president of the International Glaucoma Association, stated, "Heavy users of computer equipment may become a high-risk group. Any high-usage user should undergo regular comprehensive eye examinations." Currently, there are three methods for glaucoma testing: fundus examination, intraocular pressure measurement, and visual field testing.

Source: http://www. takungpao. com/ news/ 06/ 03/ 13/ GY- 537544. htm