Number of teens needing glasses almost doubles in seven years

A study conducted by Scrivens has found that the number of 13-16 year olds needing glasses has almost doubled during the past seven years.

In 2012, 20% of teenagers needed glasses and research this year showed that this figure has increased to 35%. Sixty six per cent of those with a prescription were myopic.

Scrivens optometrist Sheena Mangat said: ‘Because conditions such as short or long sightedness can happen gradually over time, neither children nor parents can see the signs, which is why regular eye checks are so important. There is more research that needs to be done into why myopia, in particular, is presenting itself in children in such higher numbers, especially when it comes to determining if there is a link to screen-time.'