Digital eye strain and its determinants among medical staff and medical student: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Abstract Aim: To determine the status of Digital Eye Strain (DES) among medical college staff and medical students. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted. Those with congenital eye disease, history of previous eye trauma, ocular diseases other than myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism were excluded. Inform consent was taken. Questions on demographics, frequency and pattern of computer usage and ocular discomfort were enquired. DES was graded as absent, Mild, Moderate and Severe. We used a p-value of<0.05 and a 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: Out of 455 enrolled, 452 (99.3%) completed the survey. 342 (75.7%) were aged between 21 to 30 years and 304 (67.3%) were medical student. Females were 244 (54%). Out of total 452 participants, 340 claimed that they had experienced at least one symptom of DES Overall prevalence was 75.2% (CI 95% 0.71: 0.79). participants aged ≥40 (P < 0.002), an female (P < 0.0001), refractive error (P< 0.0016), dry eye (P< 0.0024) and screen time ≥5 hours per day (P< 0.0005) were significantly associated to DES. Common complaints of DES included headache (51%) andmusculoskeletal pain (47%). DES was statistically significant among those who don’t take break (P < 0.0016) and among non user of lubricant (P < 0.0001) Regression analysis for DES was found to be effected by female > age > hour of screen use > dry eye > refractive error. Conclusion: DES is highly prevalent among medical students and medical staff. DES was affected by female, age, hour of screen use, dry eye and refractive error.