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French Health Watchdog: 3D Viewing May Damage Eyesight In Children

Posted by timothy on from the this-time-with-feeling-but-not-depth dept.

dryriver (1010635) writes with this clipping from the BBC: A French health watchdog has recommended that children under the age of six should not be allowed access to 3D content. The Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety (Anses) added that access for those up to the age of 13 should be 'moderate'. It follows research into the possible impact of 3D imaging on still-developing eyes. Few countries currently have guidelines about 3D usage. According to Anses, the process of assimilating a three-dimensional effect requires the eyes to look at images in two different places at the same time before the brain translates it as one image. 'In children, and particularly before the age of six, the health effects of this vergence-accommodation conflict could be much more severe given the active development of the visual system at this time,' it said in a statement.

3 of 99 comments (clear)

  1. I'm not a scientist... by __aaclcg7560 · · Score: 3, Insightful

    According to Anses, the process of assimilating a three-dimensional effect requires the eyes to look at images in two different places at the same time before the brain translates it as one image.

    Isn't that how normal vision works anyway?

    1. Re:I'm not a scientist... by AaronLS · · Score: 5, Insightful

      Normally, your convergence and focus operate together.

      With 3D imaging your convergence varies but focal point remains the same. No where outside of viewing a 3D image will your eyes ever experience such a scenario.

  2. I encourage my kids to get a lot of 3D content by enjar · · Score: 4, Insightful

    By making them go outside and play instead of sitting in front of the TV/computer/tablet.