Association Between Digital Device Utilization and Asthenopia Among Medical Students at King Khalid University
Abdulrahman Alamri1, Manar M Alamri2, Fatimah A Rashid2
1Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha, SAU.
Cureus
|October 23, 2023
Summary
Digital eye strain, or asthenopia, significantly impacts medical students, with prolonged device use being a key factor. This study highlights the high prevalence of eye strain among these students.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Public Health
- Medical Education
Background:
- Digital eye strain is a growing concern due to increased digital device use.
- Medical students are a population at risk due to extensive screen time for study and communication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of digital eye strain among undergraduate medical students.
- To identify correlations between digital device usage patterns and eye strain symptoms.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among 300 medical students at King Khalid University.
- Data was collected using a structured questionnaire distributed via social media platforms.
Main Results:
- Asthenopia (eye strain) was the most prevalent ocular issue at 30.5%.
- Significant positive correlations were found between asthenopia and hours spent on digital devices for studying, communication, and entertainment.
- Other ocular problems like conjunctivitis, squint, glaucoma, and cataract had lower prevalence rates.
Conclusions:
- A substantial number of medical students experience asthenopia.
- Prolonged digital device usage is significantly associated with a higher prevalence of asthenopia in this population.
