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Published on: October 18, 2024
Digital Eye Strain from Digital Device Usage Among University Students: Prevalence and Associated Factors
Praphatson Sengsoon1,2, Nattavipa Nuthong2, Roongnapa Intaruk1,2
1Movement Sciences and Exercise Research Center, Walailak University (MoveSE-WU), Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand.
Summary
Digital eye strain affects over 80% of university students, with headaches and burning eyes being common. While factors like screen time and gender show associations, their impact is modest, indicating a complex issue.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Public Health
- Digital Health
Background:
- Digital eye strain (DES) is a growing concern among university students due to increased screen time.
- Understanding the prevalence and contributing factors of DES is crucial for developing targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of digital eye strain among university students.
- To identify factors associated with digital eye strain in this population.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional survey was conducted on 387 university students aged 18-23.
- Statistical analyses included Descriptive Statistics, Chi-square test, and Fisher's exact test to assess associations.
Main Results:
- The prevalence of digital eye strain was 80.40%, with headache and eye burning as the most frequent symptoms.
- Significant associations were found with gender, vision problems, light-filtering glasses, screen time, pre-sleep device use, glare, wind exposure, and ambient air conditions.
- However, effect sizes for these associations were small, suggesting limited individual impact.
Conclusions:
- Digital eye strain is highly prevalent in university students.
- Multiple factors are statistically linked to DES, but each has a minor contribution.
- Addressing DES requires a multifactorial approach considering behavioral, environmental, and ergonomic factors.
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