Myopia (short-sightedness) has long been thought of as a genetic condition. However, recent research suggests that environmental factors are as important. In particular, the idea that unusually large amounts of reading contribute to the development of myopia is supported by a recent academic study of 4568 people aged 35–74 years. This showed that 50% of those who went to university were myopic compared to 34% of non-graduates. So, if you want to reduce your chances of developing myopia you should not go to university.