Do Blue-blocking Lenses Reduce Eye Strain From Extended Screen Time? A Double-Masked Randomized Controlled Trial

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Visual Science

Background:

• Digital eye strain is a prevalent issue among computer users.
• Blue-blocking lenses are marketed to alleviate symptoms associated with digital eye strain.
• The efficacy of blue-blocking lenses and the influence of clinician advocacy remain under investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if blue-blocking lenses effectively reduce ocular signs and symptoms of eye strain in computer users.
• To assess the impact of clinician advocacy on the effectiveness of blue-blocking lenses.

Main Methods:

• A double-masked, randomized controlled trial involving 120 symptomatic computer users.
• Participants were assigned to receive either blue-blocking or clear (placebo) spectacles.
• Clinician advocacy (positive or negative) was also a factor, with all participants believing they received an active intervention.

Main Results:

• No significant differences were found in critical flicker-fusion frequency (CFF) or eye strain symptom scores between blue-blocking and clear lenses.
• Clinician advocacy type did not significantly affect CFF or eye strain symptom scores.
• No adverse events were reported during the study.

Conclusions:

• Blue-blocking lenses do not appear to be effective in reducing the ocular signs or symptoms of eye strain associated with computer use.
• Clinician advocacy does not influence the clinical outcomes related to eye strain.
• Further research may be needed to explore alternative or combined strategies for managing digital eye strain.