Time outside might prevent nearsightedness in kids

February 5, 2009 A study in the journal Optometry and Vision Science found children who regularly spend time outside may be less likely than their peers to develop nearsightedness.

The reasons are not yet clear but children's physical activity levels did not seem to be a factor. Instead, scientist's speculate, exposure to sunlight may play a role.

Also, being outside often makes kids focus on objects at a distance. Animal studies suggest that this affects eye development in a way that helps prevent nearsightedness or myopia.