Reports are spreading on social media that the incidence of eye cancer among children in our country has increased, and it is being caused by the gadgets they spend a lot of time with.
The Press Service of the Ministry of Health clarified these reports.
— Before addressing the main issue, it is appropriate to mention that oncological diseases are becoming one of the pressing problems of today, — says Otabek Ikramov, the chief physician of the Republican Eye Diseases Clinical Hospital, Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Sciences. — This is also confirmed by the World Health Organization's information. Namely, one third of the patients die within a year after being diagnosed with oncology. Clearly, the issue is indeed serious.
In the last decade, the incidence of cancer has significantly increased, including oncological diseases of the visual organ as well. That it makes up one percent of all cancer diseases should not comfort us. Since today, nearly 4 cases of such diseases per 100,000 people are recorded worldwide.
Now, let's get to the main issue. Is the increase in eye cancer diseases significantly contributed by the gadgets that are becoming our constant companions?
Experts from Essen University in Germany have answered this question with a no.
The fact is, during a scientific research conducted in 2020 in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic, it was proven that mobile phones and other gadgets do not lead to radiation of the human visual organ and oncological diseases.
The main factors leading to eye cancer include:
- genetic diseases,
- the harmful impact of the environment,
- certain viral diseases.
However, children, especially their parents, should not be complacent thinking that gadgets do not contribute at all to eye cancer diseases.
To understand that continuous use of gadgets can eventually lead to various diseases, including eye cancer, one does not need to be a specialist in the field.
The noticeable increase in the "dry eye" syndrome lately should also alert all of us.
Following the recommendations of ophthalmologists, not allowing children to engage with gadgets for more than 2 hours a day, and for people whose work involves computers to use special "moisturizing" agents for the upper part of the eyes is advised.
Overall, in the current era of information technology, it is impossible to avoid using gadgets. However, knowing and adhering to moderation is essential for our and our health's sake.
