Influence of VDT (visual display terminals) work on eye accommodation

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Occupational Health
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Visual display terminals (VDTs) are prevalent in modern workplaces.
• VDT operators frequently report eye function impairments.
• Previous research suggests potential impacts of VDT use on visual systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of visual display terminal (VDT) work on the human visual accommodation system.
• To compare the impact of VDT work with conventional hard-copy work on accommodation.
• To explore potential interventions for VDT-induced visual strain.

Main Methods:

• Utilized an accommodo polyrecorder and an infrared optometer to measure visual accommodation.
• Conducted experiments involving VDT work and conventional hard-copy work.
• Analyzed changes in near point distance, accommodation contraction time, and accommodative fluctuation components.

Main Results:

• VDT work induced temporary effects on visual accommodation, including prolonged near point distance and contraction time.
• A significant increase in the low-frequency component of accommodative microfluctuations was observed post-VDT work.
• Accommodation inhibition from VDT use was more pronounced than from hard-copy work.
• Effects were statistically significant for smaller character sizes and tended to worsen with larger sizes.
• Older age groups (middle-aged and elderly) showed more pronounced inhibition compared to younger groups.

Conclusions:

• VDT work can lead to temporary inhibition of the visual accommodation system.
• The severity of accommodation inhibition varies with character size and age.
• Methylcobalamin administration shows potential in mitigating VDT-induced accommodation inhibition.