The Prevalence of Computer Vision Syndrome Among Medical Students in Syria: A National Cross-Sectional Study

Computer vision syndrome (CVS) is a recognised health concern characterized by eye and vision-related symptoms resulting from prolonged use of digital devices. Approximately 60 million people worldwide are affected by CVS, with almost one million new cases reported annually.

This cross-sectional study was conducted from September 1 to October 15, 2024, among medical students. A paper questionnaire was distributed to students across all academic years at both public and private universities in Syria. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, with categorical variables shown as frequencies and percentages. A Chi-square test was used to explore the association between CVS incidence among medical students in Syrian universities and other relevant factors.

The study included 2,636 medical students from Syrian universities, with a majority (74.54%) enrolled in public institutions. The prevalence of CVS among these students was 47%. The most used electronic devices were smartphones (96%), followed by laptops (32%). The primary reasons for computer use included social media (90%), studying (83%), and watching movies (44%). The most frequently employed preventive measure was taking breaks during usage (60%), while adherence to the 20-20-20 rule was minimal (7%).

The prevalence of CVS among medical students is 47%, with 90% of the sample using digital devices for social media and 83% for studying. A significant association exists between the occurrence of CVS and factors such as gender, daily computer usage time, the distance from the screen, sitting posture, and whether the individual wears corrective lenses or glasses. This study underscores the need to educate computer and smartphone users about proper ergonomics, posture, and eye exercises.