Peter Fairbanks, of Fairbanks Eye Gallery, said new research showed electronic devices, specifically with LED screens, were emitting a disproportionate amount of light at the blue end of the spectrum, including blue-violet. 

“Blue-turquoise light is important and good, but blue-violet is next to ultra-violet on the spectrum and we know the damage UV causes,” Mr Fairbanks said. 

“It increases our risk of cataracts and damages the retinal cells – which leads to macular degeneration which is the leading cause of blindness in Australia.

“Research is showing that a reduction of just 20 per cent of blue-violet light reduces the rate of retinal death by 25 per cent.” 

He said the topic was discussed at the recent Optometry Australia national conference, with the impacts of phones, tablets, televisions, screens and laptops. 

“I didn’t use a computer until my 30s, but now prep children use iPads every day at school from day one.”

He said there was also an issue as young children had the tendency to hold devices too close to their face, where the light has a greater impact. 

Mr Fairbanks recommended increasing distances from devices where possible, reducing brightness and having more breaks. He also said computer screens with reduced amounts of blue light and computer safety glasses were available to minimise risks. 

“It’s about educating the public so they can make informed decisions. It’s about being proactive instead of reactive.

“We live in a digital world – and using screens is the way we continue to be informed, so it’s hard reduce screen time.” 

He said the public should see their optometrist and get their eyes checked to seek professional advice.