Optical correction of refractive error for preventing and treating eye symptoms in computer users

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Ergonomics
• Public Health

Background:

• Computer users frequently report eye strain, headaches, and discomfort, collectively termed asthenopia.
• Asthenopia affects 46.3% to 68.5% of computer workers, potentially linked to uncorrected refractive errors.
• Refractive errors, focusing issues in the eye, can impair visual acuity and contribute to eye strain.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of optical corrections for reducing and preventing asthenopia in computer users.
• To assess the impact of interventions on health-related quality of life for computer workers with refractive errors.

Main Methods:

• Searched multiple databases (CENTRAL, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, OSH update) up to December 2017.
• Included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-randomized trials on optical corrections for computer workers.
• Two authors independently assessed eligibility, risk of bias, and extracted data; meta-analysis was performed where appropriate.

Main Results:

• Eight studies with 381 participants were included, all evaluating eyeglasses; no studies on contact lenses or surgery were found.
• Progressive computer glasses showed no considerable difference in asthenopia compared to monofocal or other computer glasses, with low to very low quality evidence.
• Some studies indicated slight short-term benefits for progressive glasses in reducing asthenopia and dizziness, but results were inconsistent and not sustained long-term.

Conclusions:

• Low to very low quality evidence suggests progressive computer glasses offer no significant reduction in eye problems or headaches for computer users.
• Uncertainty remains due to study limitations, including risk of bias, inconsistent results, and imprecision.
• Larger, high-quality RCTs with validated outcomes and longer follow-up are necessary to establish definitive conclusions.