Aim

The aim of the study was to evaluate the association between lifestyle risk factors for myopia development and the prevalence of nearsightedness among young adults.

Material and methods

The analysis included 1608 students of Cracow universities. An original questionnaire was distributed to the participants through the Internet or as a paper version. Respondents answered questions about their refractive defects, average time spent per day on: reading, using electronic devices, doing- sports and staying outdoors in daylight. We also asked them about taking care of good lighting conditions, and taking breaks during visual work at close range.

Results

Our study shows the prevalence rate of vision defects, with myopia as the dominating one among Cracow’s students (63%). Our study showed an association between higher myopia prevalence and longer time spent on near work. More time spent outdoors in daylight, physical activity, and taking breaks during close work were associated with a lower frequency of nearsightedness.

Conclusions

There is a connection between some lifestyle behaviors and a higher prevalence of myopia. The development and progression of nearsightedness is a common occurrence among young adults.