The number of people suffering nearsightedness is dramatically increasing according to new studies.

Only 25 percent of Americans were nearsighted in the 1970s.

But that number has now jumped to 41 percent according to the National Eye Institute.

Health experts say the increase could be blamed on more indoor activity among children, such as texting, surfing the internet, playing video games, and watching too much television.

"Nearsighted work can really effect the development of young eyes if that is exclusively the kind of work that you are doing. It is equally important to be outside playing, stimulating your far vision," Optometrist Dr. Roy Chuck said.

Doctors say in order to help prevent nearsightedness, parents need to encourage their children to turn off the television and play outside.