Latest news with #ComputerVisionSyndrome
India.com
21-05-2025
- Health
- India.com
Baba Vanga's Prophetic Warning: How She Predicted Smartphone Addiction Years Ago Cautioning Generations - Check What She Said
photoDetails english 2904267 Technology has undeniably transformed human life, reshaping the way we communicate, work, and connect with others. However, it has also brought along serious challenges—especially concerning our mental and physical well-being. Decades ago, Baba Vanga, the famous Bulgarian mystic known for her eerily accurate predictions, had foreseen the psychological dangers posed by a small yet powerful device: the smartphone. Updated:May 21, 2025, 05:06 PM IST Baba Vanga and her future predictions 1 / 7 Baba Vanga, renowned for her strikingly accurate predictions, is believed to have foreseen a future where humans would grow excessively reliant on small electronic gadgets. These devices—now clearly recognisable as smartphones—were, according to her, destined to transform human behaviour and impact mental health. Though originally designed to make life easier, she warned that this technology could pose serious risks to well-being. Her predictions highlighted concerns like weakened human connections, shorter attention spans, and a surge in mental health issues. Mental health issues due to phone 2 / 7 Excessive screen time is taking a toll on both children and adults. It disrupts sleep, affects mental health, and leads to physical issues like eye strain and neck pain. Constant device use is also weakening real-life social connections. Experts now stress the importance of digital detoxes, building stronger offline relationships, and practising mindfulness. Cutting down on notifications and screen time may be crucial steps in tackling the rising problem of mobile addiction. Use of smartphone before bedtime 3 / 7 A report by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) reveals that nearly 24% of children in India use smartphones before bedtime, a habit that disrupts sleep, affects focus, and may hinder learning. Mental health affecting adults 4 / 7 Excessive screen time has been linked to rising cases of anxiety, depression, and attention disorders among children. The issue extends to adults as well, with smartphone addiction causing problems like eye strain, neck pain, and disturbed sleep due to constant scrolling, social media use, and late-night browsing. Poor posture 5 / 7 Extended screen time can result in Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), causing dry eyes, blurred vision, and eye strain. Poor posture from frequently looking down at phones often leads to neck and back pain, known as "text neck." Studies also show a strong link between heavy smartphone use and increased anxiety and depression, especially in young adults. Ironically, devices meant to connect us can, when overused, contribute to loneliness and social isolation. Weakening Relationships 6 / 7 Families that spend too much time on digital devices often find it difficult to maintain deep emotional bonds. Overuse of screens can also shorten attention spans and lower productivity at work, resulting in more mistakes and a decline in performance quality. Do Not Disturb feature 7 / 7 To maintain a healthy balance with technology, it's important to take regular breaks from screens and use apps that help monitor and limit usage. Spend quality, device-free time with family and friends, and engage in outdoor activities or screen-free hobbies. Practising mindfulness can help curb the constant urge to check your phone. Activating features like 'Do Not Disturb' also helps reduce distractions and improve focus.
Los Angeles Times
19-05-2025
- Health
- Los Angeles Times
Smart Screens Are Supporting Eye Health, Preventing Burnout, and Boosting Creativity
LA Times Studios may earn commission from purchases made through our links. You're doomscrolling again. Somewhere between your fifth news alert and your 40th Instagram Story, your eyes start to sting. You're not sure if you're tired, anxious, overstimulated, or all of the above. And you're definitely not alone. Welcome to the age of screen fatigue. According to the latest Reuters Institute Digital News Report, 39% of Americans are actively avoiding the news, a three-point jump from just a year ago. Not because they're tuning out, but because they're maxed out. It's not apathy. It's emotional survival. This is what happens when our screens outpace our capacity to engage with them. As Healthy Vision Month arrives this May, it's a good time to ask: What if the solution to screen fatigue isn't disconnecting, but redesigning the experience entirely? If you've ever rubbed your eyes during a video call or felt fried after back-to-back scrolls, you're not imagining things. Eye strain is real, and so is the toll it's taking on our focus, energy, and emotional bandwidth. The American Optometric Association says more than 50% of people who spend over three hours a day on screens experience Computer Vision Syndrome: a cluster of symptoms that includes blurry vision, headaches, dry eyes, and fatigue. 'There's a well-documented link between extended screen time and visual fatigue, which has become a near-universal issue for people working and living in front of digital devices,' says George Toh, Vice President and General Manager of Lenovo's Visuals Business. He's not anti-screen, just pro-awareness. 'With so much of our daily life spent in front of screens, being intentional about how we use them (and for how long) is key to avoiding their impact,' he explains. Toh recommends starting small: implement the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds), and take stock of your setup. 'Adjust your viewing distance, optimize angles and posture, reduce glare. These changes sound simple, but they add up fast,' he says. He's also quick to point out that many devices now offer built-in wellness features. 'We're seeing more screens with posture nudges, break reminders, and adaptive settings, but building your own habits is still the most important first step.' Not long ago, screen innovation meant higher resolution, faster refresh rates, and deeper contrast. All great for visual performance, but what about the user? 'Today's users expect displays to be intuitive and support comfort, wellness, and long-term usability,' says Toh. That shift has pushed display makers like Lenovo to rethink the fundamentals, starting with the eyes. 'Displays are now being built with anti-glare coatings and low blue light technology,' he notes. 'A lot of premium monitors are certified to meet international standards like Eyesafe and TÜV Rheinland Eye Comfort, which ensure low strain without compromising visual quality.' It's not just about what's on the screen, it's how the screen fits into your physical space. 'We've moved from an era when the user adjusts to the monitor to one where the monitor adjusts to the user,' says Toh. Height, tilt, and swivel adjustments are now the norm on professional-grade displays. Toh believes that the future of screen innovation is all about digital resilience, the ability to use technology in a way that supports physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being over time. 'At its core, digital resilience is about helping people engage with their digital environment in a safe, healthy, and sustainable way,' he explains. This means adaptive screens that respond to your lighting, your activity, and even your posture. 'We already have displays that use ambient sensors to adjust brightness, and presence detectors that power down when you walk away,' says Toh. But the next wave is even more personalized. 'Soon, we'll see displays that shift color temperature throughout the day, cooler in the morning, warmer in the evening, to align with our circadian rhythms,' he says. 'And AI will allow screens to learn your habits: optimizing contrast, lowering refresh rates for reading, bumping them up for gaming.' In other words, your screen will know when you need to wind down before you do. If you're worried that an 'eye-friendly' screen means sacrificing vibrancy or sharpness, Toh is happy to prove otherwise. 'The beauty of recent innovations in display technology is that we no longer see a trade-off between high engagement and good health; we can have both,' he says. Toh explains that when visual comfort is dialed in (accurate color, minimal flicker, reduced blue light), it actually enhances productivity and focus. 'High-quality visuals naturally pull users into the task at hand,' he says. 'And when you're not straining or distracted by discomfort, you stay in the creative zone longer.' Comfort, in this case, isn't just physical. It's mental. 'When a user is physically at ease, they're more likely to stay engaged and spark creativity,' says Toh. 'That's where performance and well-being intersect.' We're heading into a future where your monitor isn't just a tool, it's part of your wellness ecosystem. 'We now have displays that are flexible, curved, and adjustable for different workflows,' says Toh. 'But what's really exciting is how AI and sensors will allow these screens to sync with your environment—and with you.' Imagine a setup where your screen, chair, desk, and even wearable devices work together to improve your posture, recommend breaks, or reduce eye strain automatically. 'In a decade, these features could be standard,' Toh predicts. 'Monitors will learn from your behavior and respond to your needs without you lifting a finger.' The goal isn't more tech, it's smarter, kinder tech. We're not getting fewer screens any time soon. But we can make them work better for our eyes, our mood, and our creativity. 'A display designed with well-being in mind helps users stay focused on what matters most—whether you're a creative professional or a casual user,' Toh says. And in a world where our devices are with us from the moment we wake to the moment we sleep, that kind of design isn't a luxury. It's a necessity. In a world where screens are non-negotiable, the real game-changer isn't logging off, it's leveling up. So instead of fearing burnout or dodging notifications, take a beat. Reset your relationship with your screens. Because clarity, on your screen and in your mind, starts with seeing things differently. Click here to learn more about Lenovo
Time of India
13-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Baba Vanga's chilling prediction comes true: The device that's becoming a silent killer for all ages
Baba Vanga predictions Technology has undeniably transformed human life, reshaping how we communicate, work, and socialise. However, it has also brought new challenges, particularly to our mental and physical well-being. Decades ago, Baba Vanga , the famed Bulgarian mystic known for her accurate predictions, warned about the psychological dangers of a small yet powerful device. This prediction, which seemed far-fetched at the time, appears increasingly relevant today as smartphones dominate our lives. From children to the elderly, the excessive use of mobile devices is emerging as a critical health concern, affecting everything from sleep quality to social relationships. Here, you can explore Baba Vanga's unsettling prediction, the scientific evidence supporting it, and practical steps to reduce the impact of excessive screen time. Baba Vanga's 'serious warning' about technology Baba Vanga, who gained worldwide fame for her accurate prophecies, reportedly foresaw a future where humans would become overly dependent on small electronic devices. She predicted that these devices, which today can be identified as smartphones, would significantly alter human behavior and mental health. According to her, this technology, initially intended to simplify life, could eventually become a major threat to human well-being. How mobile addiction is affecting children and adults alike The impact of excessive screen time is becoming a widespread issue across all age groups, reflecting Baba Vanga's ominous warning. 1. Children and teenagers at risk According to a report by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) in India, nearly 24% of children regularly use smartphones before bed. This habit disrupts sleep cycles, impairs concentration, and can lead to long-term learning difficulties. Studies have shown that excessive screen time in children is linked to increased rates of anxiety, depression, and attention disorders. Additionally, children spending too much time on screens often miss out on physical activities and real-world social interactions, affecting their overall development. 2. The toll on adults The problem is not limited to children. Adults, too, are falling victim to smartphone addiction . Continuous scrolling, late-night browsing, and social media overuse contribute to physical issues like eye strain, neck pain, and disrupted sleep. The mental health impact is significant, leading to heightened stress, decreased attention span, and increased feelings of loneliness and isolation. Over-reliance on virtual interactions can weaken real-life relationships, reducing empathy and emotional connection. The physical and psychological impact of screen addiction Excessive smartphone use is associated with a range of physical and mental health problems: Physical issues: Digital eye strain : Prolonged screen exposure leads to dry eyes, blurred vision, and eye discomfort, a condition known as Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). Posture problems : Constantly looking down at a phone can cause neck and back pain, often referred to as 'text neck.' Sleep disruption : The blue light emitted by screens interferes with melatonin production, making it harder to fall asleep. Mental health effects: Increased anxiety and depression : Studies have linked high smartphone use to higher rates of anxiety and depression, particularly among young adults. Reduced attention span : Constant notifications and the fast-paced nature of digital content reduce our ability to focus. Social isolation : Ironically, while smartphones are designed to connect people, excessive use can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation. How mobile addiction is weakening social bonds and family ties The societal effects of excessive smartphone use extend beyond individual health. It can disrupt family dynamics, weaken social bonds, and reduce overall productivity. Impact on family relationships : Families spending more time on their devices often struggle to maintain strong emotional connections. Workplace challenges : Excessive screen time reduces attention span and workplace productivity, leading to frequent errors and reduced work quality. Community detachment : Over-reliance on digital communication reduces face-to-face interactions, weakening the social fabric. Steps to combat mobile addiction Given the widespread impact of mobile addiction, immediate steps are needed to counter this growing crisis. 1. Digital detox strategies Schedule regular breaks from devices. Use apps that track and limit screen time. Create tech-free zones, like the dining table or bedroom. 2. Encouraging real-world connections Spend quality time with family and friends without devices. Encourage outdoor activities and hobbies that don't involve screens. Promote face-to-face conversations at home and in workplaces. 3. Mindfulness and digital hygiene Practice mindfulness to reduce the impulse to check your phone frequently. Use features like 'Do Not Disturb' to reduce distractions. Turn off non-essential notifications to limit digital noise. Discover everything about astrology at the Times of India , including daily horoscopes for Aries , Taurus , Gemini , Cancer , Leo , Virgo , Libra , Scorpio , Sagittarius , Capricorn , Aquarius , and Pisces .
Los Angeles Times
23-04-2025
- Health
- Los Angeles Times
Sharper Days, Deeper Zzzs: What Blue Light Glasses Really Do
LA Times Studios may earn commission from purchases made through our links. Wake up. Check your phone. Open your laptop. Spend 10 hours toggling between digital screens like Zoom, Slack, and Netflix. Repeat. If this sounds like your day-to-day, welcome to the club — one populated by screen-bound professionals, binge-watchers, and late-night scrollers. But there's a silent tax on all this productivity and entertainment: eye strain, digital fatigue, and disrupted sleep. The culprit? Blue light. We're talking about the kind emitted from digital devices (phones, tablets, monitors) that, while invisible, may be slowly rewiring our sleep cycles and frying our focus. It's called blue light burnout, and chances are you've already experienced it. Blue light is part of the visible light spectrum, with shorter wavelengths and higher energy, known as high-energy visible light (about 400 to 490 nanometers). Naturally present in sunlight, blue light plays a vital role in regulating our circadian rhythms. However, exposure to artificial blue light (especially after sundown) can have unintended effects. According to UC Davis Health, nighttime blue light exposure suppresses melatonin, the hormone responsible for helping us sleep. This disruption can cause delayed sleep onset, reduce sleep quality, and throw off your body's internal clock. Translation: more scrolling before bed, less restorative sleep. In today's digital age, blue light overexposure has become a significant concern. Blue light (technically known as high-energy visible (HEV) light) is emitted from digital devices like smartphones, laptops, tablets, and LED lighting. And while it's not inherently evil, too much of it can do a number on your eyes. Prolonged exposure can lead to what's now commonly known as Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), or digital eye strain. If you've ever felt that dry, itchy eye feeling after a long workday, or experienced mysterious headaches or blurred vision during a Netflix binge, congratulations — you've met CVS. According to research published in the International Journal of Ophthalmology, chronic exposure to blue light may even increase oxidative stress on the retina and raise the risk of age-related macular degeneration. So, no — it's not just in your head. But it's not all doom and gloom. Blue light exposure also has a stealthy side effect that many of us are just starting to take seriously: sleep disruption. That same shortwave light that keeps screens so vibrant also tricks your brain into thinking it's still daytime, suppressing melatonin production and delaying your ability to fall (and stay) asleep. Back in 2011, when most of us were just learning to swipe, Japanese eyewear brand JINS introduced something groundbreaking: blue light-blocking glasses, originally called JINS PC. Designed to combat digital eye strain before 'blue light' was a household term, these glasses became a cultural phenomenon. Katsumi (Mickey) Kubota, President of JINS Eyewear US, says JINS saw the need before the conversation started. 'People were spending more time in front of screens, but no one was addressing the consequences. We decided to change that.' Today, that original innovation lives on in JINS SCREEN, a refined line of lenses that balance form and function. They're not just protective; they're chic, customizable, and smartly tailored to our digital lives. In a world where screens never sleep, Kubota says, 'Protecting your eyes and your rest has never been more important.' 'At JINS, we've designed our nighttime-friendly lenses to filter higher percentages of blue light,' he adds. 'They help support natural sleep rhythms without compromising clarity or comfort. Our lenses can be seamlessly integrated into reading glasses, gaming setups, or everyday frames — so you don't have to sacrifice convenience for wellness.' Initially launched as JINS PC, the product was among the first to introduce the concept of functional eyewear designed not for vision correction, but for eye protection in a digital world. The glasses were a hit, attracting media buzz and spawning a new category of eyewear. Their appeal was in their simplicity: use them like regular glasses, but with built-in blue light protection. Eventually, the product was rebranded as JINS SCREEN, and the technology evolved to include multiple cut rates and a sleeker design. Kubota adds, 'The more people used our glasses, the more they realized how essential they are — not just for gamers or techies, but for anyone with a smartphone.' These lenses now come in two core options: While past models included higher cut rates and specialized nighttime lenses, the current lineup prioritizes versatility and comfort. Both options can be added to almost any JINS frame (whether prescription or non-prescription) with an optional fee. For the minimalist or non-glasses wearer, JINS even offers package sets that include both the frame and SCREEN lenses, making blue light protection an easy, stylish add-on. Of course, even the most advanced lenses won't help if you're reluctant to wear them. That's why JINS approaches eyewear with fashion in mind. Their frames range from understated classics to trend-forward silhouettes, ensuring that your blue light blockers look as good as they perform. 'We wanted to eliminate the stigma,' says Kubota. 'Protective eyewear shouldn't look like protective gear. It should feel like part of your personal style.' JINS has continuously collaborated with academic researchers to refine its lens technology. Their focus is on developing coatings and materials that block harmful wavelengths while maintaining visual clarity. This commitment to research pays off: Studies suggest that reducing short-wavelength light exposure at night can improve sleep quality and cognitive performance. Another found that blue light-blocking glasses may help people with insomnia fall asleep faster. The science supports what wearers already report anecdotally: less eye fatigue, better sleep, and improved focus. Of course, blue light lenses are just one tool in a digital wellness toolkit. Experts recommend a few additional strategies: When combined with smart habits, blue light-blocking glasses can make a noticeable difference in your digital fatigue. In a world that never powers down, taking care of your eyes (and your mind) isn't a luxury, it's a necessity. That's where JINS SCREEN glasses come in. Sleek, smart, and grounded in science, they're more than just an accessory. They're a simple, stylish way to shield your eyes from digital burnout and help recalibrate your sleep routine. Click here for more information on JINS
See - Sada Elbalad
14-02-2025
- Health
- See - Sada Elbalad
The Screen Time Epidemic
Dr. Magdy Badran The screen time epidemic is a modern public health crisis. The modern digital era has led to a significant increase in screen time, particularly among children and adolescents. This phenomenon, often referred to as the "screen time epidemic," raises concerns about its effects on physical health, mental well-being, and overall lifestyle habits. In today's hyperconnected world, excessive digital use can lead to eye strain, sleep disturbances, anxiety, reduced productivity, and even social isolation. The Surge in Screen Time Studies have shown a dramatic rise in screen usage over the past decade, with a notable increase during the COVID-19 pandemic. A JAMA Network Open study found that children's daily screen time increased by nearly two hours per day during the pandemic, with one additional hour persisting even after restrictions were lifted. Another review reported a 52% rise in screen time for children between 2020 and 2022, with teenagers (ages 12-18) experiencing the highest increases. The Screen Time-Obesity Connection Excessive screen time has been identified as a significant contributor to the rising rates of obesity, particularly among children and adolescents. Multiple studies have explored the relationship between prolonged screen exposure, sedentary lifestyle and increased body weight. High recreational screen time is associated with higher body mass index (BMI) percentiles and an increased likelihood of overweight or obesity in children and adolescents. Extended periods spent on activities such as watching television, playing video games, or using computers often replace time that could be allocated to physical exercise. This reduction in physical activity contributes to weight gain and the development of obesity. Screen time is often associated with increased food consumption, particularly when individuals eat while engaged with media. This mindless eating behavior can lead to overeating, as attention is diverted from hunger and satiety cues, resulting in higher caloric intake. Children and adolescents are frequently exposed to advertisements for high-calorie, low-nutrient foods and beverages during screen time. This exposure to unhealthy food advertising influences their food preferences, purchase requests, and consumption habits, contributing to unhealthy dietary patterns. Excessive screen time, especially before bedtime, can interfere with sleep quality and duration. Reduced sleep has been linked to metabolic changes that promote weight gain and increase the risk of obesity. Reduced Blinking and Digital Eye Strain Prolonged screen time can lead to digital eye strain, also known as Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), characterized by symptoms such as headaches, dry eyes, and blurry vision. When focusing on screens, individuals tend to blink less frequently, which can significantly impact eye health. Normally, a person blinks about 15 to 20 times per minute, but during screen use, this rate can drop by up to 50%. Blinking is essential for maintaining a stable tear film, which keeps the eyes lubricated and protects them from dryness, irritation, and strain. Why Does Screen Use Reduce Blinking? • Increased Concentration: When reading, watching videos, or gaming, people naturally reduce their blink rate as they concentrate, leading to prolonged exposure of the eye's surface. • Blue Light Exposure: The high-energy blue light emitted by screens can cause discomfort, making it harder for the eyes to stay naturally moist. • Poor Screen Ergonomics: Looking at screens positioned too high or too close can unconsciously reduce blinking and exacerbate strain. Consequences of Reduced Blinking • A lower blink rate prevents the proper distribution of tears, leading to dry eyes, burning sensations, and discomfort. • When blinks are incomplete, the protective tear film evaporates more quickly, worsening eye dryness. • Insufficient blinking can cause momentary blurring, difficulty focusing, and an overall sense of tired eyes. Eye Muscle Fatigue Continuous focus on digital screens can cause eye muscle fatigue, contributing to discomfort and strain. Symptoms include eye discomfort or irritation, blurred or double vision, headaches, and neck, shoulder, or back pain. Postural Problems Prolonged screen time can lead to various postural problems due to the tendency to adopt improper body positions while using digital devices. These issues are becoming increasingly prevalent among both children and adults. Common postural issues associated with excessive screen time include forward head posture, rounded shoulders and lower back pain. Placing screens too low or too high can cause users to adopt awkward neck and back positions, leading to strain. Extended periods of sitting without movement can cause muscle stiffness and imbalance, exacerbating postural issues. Mental Health Concerns Research links high social media usage to higher rates of depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem, especially among teenagers. Excessive screen time can alter dopamine levels in the brain, leading to screen addiction and decreased attention spans. How Screen Time Disrupts Sleep Blue light from screens reduces melatonin production, making it harder to fall asleep. Exposure to screens at night confuses the body's natural sleep-wake cycle, delaying sleep onset. Engaging with digital content (social media, games, or videos) causes increased mental stimulation and keeps the brain alert instead of relaxing. Exposure to screens at night disrupts the Rapid Eye Movement (REM) stage of sleep, affects memory consolidation and emotional regulation. Digital Detox A digital detox is a conscious break from screens—smartphones, computers, TVs, and tablets—to reduce stress, improve well-being, and regain control over screen time. A detox helps reset your mental space, improves sleep quality, and restores natural melatonin production, leading to better sleep. It enhances focus and productivity, cuts down distractions and helps improve concentration and efficiency. Spending more time offline improves relationships and meaningful interactions. Reducing exposure to blue light minimizes eye strain and fatigue. Set screen-free zones. Keep bedrooms, dining areas, and family gatherings free from digital devices. Schedule no-screen time. Dedicate specific hours each day (like mornings or evenings) for a break from screens. Turn off non-essential notifications. Reduce interruptions from apps, emails, and social media. Use a basic alarm clock. Avoid checking your phone first thing in the morning by replacing it with a real alarm clock. Engage in offline activities. Read a book, go for a walk, meditate, or do creative hobbies. Try a 24-hour digital detox challenge. One full day without screens can reset your digital habits. Signs You Need a Digital Detox You check your phone immediately after waking up. You feel anxious when your phone isn't nearby. You mindlessly scroll for hours without realizing it. Your sleep quality has declined. You experience eye strain, headaches, or neck pain from excessive screen time. Mind Over Screen Awareness and moderation can reduce digital overload. The screen time epidemic is a growing public health concern that affects physical, mental, and emotional well-being. While digital technology offers many benefits, moderation and mindful usage are essential to maintaining a healthy balance. Through awareness, parental guidance, and policy changes, we can work towards reducing the negative effects of excessive screen time and fostering a healthier digital lifestyle.
