A correlational study between the degree of digital eye strain and total screen time among medical students
- Author:
Beatriz Renee I. Rivera
1
;
Angelico M. Robles
1
;
Trisha Joy Basille A. Rodriguez
1
;
Emilio Joaquim B. Roxas
1
;
Katrina Margarita H. Saavedra
1
;
Rian Gabrielle A. Sablan
1
;
Hanz Jefry A. Saliendra
1
;
Angelo O. San Jose
1
;
Agnes A. Alba
2
;
Jose Ronilo G. Juangco
3
Author Information
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords: Digital eye strain; total screen time; computer vision syndrome
- MeSH: Human; Students, medical; online learning; education, distance
- From: Health Sciences Journal 2024;13(2):97-101
- CountryPhilippines
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
INTRODUCTION:The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly increased reliance on digital devices for education, leading to heightened concerns about digital eye strain (DES) among students. This study aimed to investigate the association between screen time and the degree of DES among first to third-year medical students at a private medical school from August to September 2023.
METHODS:An analytical cross-sectional design was employed, involving 194 participants who completed a self administered questionnaire, including the Computer Vision Syndrome Questionnaire (CVS-Q). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and relative risk calculations.
RESULTS:The mean daily screen time was 6.94 hours, with 79.38% of participants reporting symptoms of digital eye strain. A significant association was found between screen time and DES, with a positive risk ratio of 1.304 for those spending 4-8 hours on screens compared to those with less than 4 hours.
CONCLUSION:This study highlights the growing prevalence of DES among medical students during the pandemic, emphasizing the need for educational institutions to implement strategies that mitigate screenrelated health risks. Recommendations include awareness programs, ergonomic guidelines and regular eye check-ups to promote ocular health. - Full text:202501061047143689UERM5.pdf
