Addressing computer vision syndrome among different sections of society working digitally amidst prevailing covid-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Ongoing Pandemic led to embrace technology like never before, which can lead to a rise in the number of ocular complaints grouped under computer vision syndrome (CVS) and put them at a higher risk for developing myopia and serious eye problems in future. Objectives: To assess the magnitude of the emerging significant ocular health problems addressed as CVS and awareness regarding preventive measures to be taken to maintain good ocular health. Methodology: A modified structured Performa was distributed as google form among different sections of Indian society working digitally to collect socio-demographic information, knowledge about CVS, preventive measures taken while working digitally, and questions regarding screen time. A validated CVS questionnaire was administered to assess 16 symptoms, scored using two rating scales for frequency and intensity. A total score of ≥ 6 points is said to suffer from CVS. Statistical analysis was done by mean, standard deviation, chi-square test of independence, and p-value. Results: 506 digitally working people having a mean age of 32.37±12.69 years; 54.74% were male and 45.26% were females. The majority (36.36%) fell under 21-30 years. Prevalence of CVS was 49.81% in males and 50.12% in females. The most commonly reported complaint was headache (70.35%). The majority of subjects (78.10%) with CVS experienced symptoms in moderate intensity. Majority (36.95%) adjusted screen brightness between 25-50%, while 8.89% kept their screen brightness to 6 hours per day, duration of continuously staring at the screen, screen brightness levels, pre-existing refractory error, Knowledge about preventive measures to maintain good ocular hygiene were significantly associated with the development of CVS.

Keywords

• asthenopia
• myopia
• prevalence
• risk factors
• syndrome