Background:
Computer vision syndrome (CVS) is defined by the American Optometric Association
(AOA) has “Complex of eye and vision problems related to near work, which are
experienced during or related to computer use”. Computer Vision Syndrome is the name
given to eye problems caused by prolonged computer use including: Eye irritation (Dry
eyes, itchy eyes, red eyes) Blurred vision, Headaches and Backaches. It is said that use of
full bright devices with unprotected eyes continuously for two hours is a major risk factor
for the development of CVS.
Objectives:
To determine the prevalence of computer vision syndrome among computer medical
students.
To determine the ergonomic practices of computer use by the medical students.
Methodology:
After obtaining approval from the ethics board of the institutions, a self-administered
questionnaire was used to collect demographic data of medical students and identify cases
of the computer vision syndrome in participants who were undergoing vision related
symptoms in the reaction of working on a computer. Students who were unwilling to
participate in the study and students with genetic eye problems such as amblyopia, myopia,
hypermetropia, astigmatism etc were excluded from the study.
Results:
We received a total of 347 responses. The number of males respondents were 162 (46.7 %)
whereas the number of female respondents were 185 (53.3 %). The mean age of the
participants was 22.4 ± 1.49 years. We received the most responses, 189 (54.5 %), from
students of Pak International Medical College whereas the least number of responses, 39
(11.2 %) from Rehman Medical College. The responses received from Northwest School
of Medicine were 119 (34.3 %). Our study revealed that only 149 (42.9 %) were aware of
Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) while more than half of the students were unaware i.e
198 (57.1 %). Majority of the students 210 (60.5 %) used computers or digital devices for
less than 5 hours. The posture of most of the students were neck forward accounting for
180 (51.9 %) followed by correct posture 53 (15.3 %). The symptom that was reported by
majority of the students was tired eyes which was reported by 183 (52.7 %) students. The
students indicated that the symptoms mostly developed between 3 and 6 hours. Symptoms
disappeared after sleep and rest for 197 (56.8%) students. Most of the students, 175 (50.4
%) reported not using anti-glare glasses while using a computer while 172 (49.6 %) of the
students used anti-glare glasses. Majority of the students, 198 (57.1 %) reported that they
take a break every 60 mins of work. The viewing distance from the device screen for most
of the students was less than or equal to 50 centimeter which was the case for 198 (57.1
%). The lighting condition of the working area as reported by 164 (47.3 %) the students
was most commonly a bright area.
Conclusion:
The research has emphasized the significance of comprehending the root causes of CVS,
including excessive screen time, insufficient viewing distances, inadequate illumination,
and incorrect ergonomic setups. Recognizing these elements enables people and
organisations to take preventative action to reduce the risk of CVS and advance visual
health.
It is essential that people, companies, and medical professionals place a high priority on
CVS awareness and education. We can lessen the impact of CVS and assure long-term
visual comfort for digital device users by putting preventive measures into place,
encouraging healthy screen habits, and offering appropriate assistance.
Keywords: computer vision syndrome; medical students; undergraduate; prevalence
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