Cases of short-sightedness among young Asians on the rise
Up to 90% of school leavers in major Asian cities are suffering from myopia (short-sightedness) a study suggests.
Researchers say the "extraordinary rise" in the problem is being caused by students working very hard in school and missing out on outdoor light.
The scientists told the Lancet that up to one in five of these students could experience severe visual impairment and even blindness.
Lijia Zhang is a writer and social commentator in Beijing and she told the BBC that high expectations on children were a factor.
04 May 2012
- From the section Asia