The association between digital screen time and myopia (near-sightedness) has been a hot topic in the world of eye and vision care. Recently, investigators point out that, yes, digital screen time is frequently cited as a potential modifiable environmental risk factor for myopia. But, they say, this association is not consistent. For starters, myopia prevalence was already on the rise before digital devices really took off in some countries. So, they looked through 15 studies that included a total of 49,789 children between the ages of 3 and 19. Seven studies found an association between screen time and myopia. Five found no association. 

This review and meta-analysis summarizes the available relevant evidence, and the researchers found no clear association between screen time and myopia prevalence, incidence or myopia progression. 

The add that a particular nuance of the study is that screen time may lead to reduced time outdoors, which is associated with elevated myopia, regardless of how kids spend their time indoors. No data exists to clarify whether that indoor time is actually associated with digital devise use. However, given the rise in hours spend by children using screens, further studies are warranted using objective screen time measurements.
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Bottom line here: Have your kids spend more time with outdoor activities. 

Ophthal Physl Opt. January 13, 2020