Computer vision syndrome and ergonomic risk factors among workers of the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: an institutional-based cross-sectional study

Background

Computer vision syndrome (CVS) is the most pressing public health concern that affects vision and reduces quality of life and productivity, particularly in developing countries. Most of the previous studies conducted in Ethiopia focus on the knowledge and personal risk factors of bank workers. Moreover, ergonomic workstation design was not objectively assessed, which could hinder the implementation of effective intervention strategies. Therefore, this study aimed to determine CVS and ergonomic factors among commercial bank workers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Methods

An institutional-based cross-sectional study was carried out among 466 study participants from May 26 to July 24, 2022. A multistage sampling technique was applied to select the study participants. Data were collected via a standardized tool of CVS (CVS-Q). Besides, workstation ergonomics were pertinently assessed. The collected data was entered into EpiData version 3.1 and exported to SPSS version 26 for data analysis and cleaning. Multivariable logistics regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with CVS. The variables with a p-value < 0.05 were considered statistically significant factors.

Results

Prevalence of CVS was 75.3% (95% CI: 71.2-79.2%). Blurred vision, eye redness, and headache, 59.8%, 53.7%, and 50.7%, respectively, were frequently reported symptoms. Glare (AOR = 4.45: 95% CI: 2.45-8.08), 20-20-20 principle (AOR = 1.98, 95% CI: 1.06-3.67), wearing non-prescription eyeglasses (AOR = 4.17; 95% CI: 1.92-9.06), and poor workstation (AOR = 7.39; 95% CI: 4.05-13.49) was significantly associated with CVS.

Conclusion

The prevalence of CVS was found to be high. Glare at work, ignoring the 20-20-20 principle, wearing non-prescription eyeglasses, and poor workstation ergonomic design were independent predictors of CVS. Therefore, comprehensive interventional activities like adhering to the 20-20-20 principle, avoiding the use of non-prescription glasses, minimizing glare, and improving workstation ergonomic setup are essential to prevent CVS.

Computer vision syndrome among Sudanese medical students: a growing medical issue in the digital world

Computer vision syndrome (CVS) refers to a set of eye-related symptoms that arise from prolonged computer usage. A survey was conducted to investigate the demographic characteristics, factors contributing to, and preventive measures against CVS. Out of 159 participants, 31.0% experienced seven or more symptoms, indicating a notable prevalence. The study found no significant correlation between age or academic years and CVS occurrence (P values of 0.481 and 0.392, respectively). However, gender exhibited a statistically significant relationship, with females students showing a higher prevalence than males (P=0.018; τ=0.105*). Notably, the distance from the screen had a highly significant inverse correlation with CVS occurrence (P=0.000; τ=-0.207**), indicating that greater distance reduced the risk. Additionally, using a screen filter (P=0.000; τ=0.184**) and adjusting screen brightness (P=0.017; τ=0.101*) were associated with CVS occurrence. Among preventive measures, only the use of an anti-glare screen showed a significant association with reducing CVS risk (P=0.018; τ=-0.099*). Given these findings, raising awareness about CVS among medical students is recommended, especially as curricula in medical colleges evolve.

Prevalence of computer vision syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

This review aimed to estimate the prevalence of computer vision syndrome (CVS) in the general population and subgroups.

METHODS

A search was conducted in the following the databases: PubMed, SCOPUS, EMBASE, and Web of Science until February 13, 2023. We included studies that assessed the prevalence of CVS in any population. The Joanna Briggs Institute's critical appraisal tool was used to evaluate the methodological quality. A meta-analysis of the prevalence of CVS was done using a random-effects model, assessing the sources of heterogeneity using subgroup and meta-regression analyses.

RESULTS

A total of 103 cross-sectional studies with 66 577 participants were included. The prevalence of CVS was 69.0% (95% CI: 62.3 to 75.3; I2: 99.7%), ranging from 12.1 to 97.3% across studies. Point prevalence was higher in women than in men (71.4 vs. 61.8%), university students (76.1%), Africa (71.2%), Asia (69.9%), contact lens wearers (73.1% vs. 63.8%) in studies conducted before the COVID-19 pandemic (72.8%), and in those that did not use the CVS-Q questionnaire (75.4%). In meta-regression, using the CVS-Q scale was associated with a lower prevalence of CVS.

CONCLUSION

Seven out of ten people suffer from CVS. Preventive strategies and interventions are needed to decrease the prevalence of this condition which can affect productivity and quality of life. Future studies should standardize a definition of CVS.

The Prevalence and Knowledge of Digital Eye Strain Among the Undergraduates in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Aim/background Digital eye strain, also called computer vision syndrome (CVS), is a group of symptoms resulting from prolonged computer, tablet, e-reader, and cell phone use. The level of discomfort and the severity of these symptoms appear to increase with the amount of digital screen use. These symptoms include eyestrain, headaches, blurred vision, and dry eyes. This study aims to assess the changes in the prevalence of digital eye strain among college students in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among university students at different college institutions in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Subjects were interviewed, and the data were collected using an online questionnaire. The questionnaire was composed of student demographic data, students' general knowledge and risk perception of digital eye strain, and the assessment of CVS symptoms questionnaire. Results Of the 364 university students, 55.5% were females, and 96.2% were aged between 18 and 29 years. A significant proportion of university students (84.6%) were using digital devices for five hours or more. The proportion of university students who were aware of the 20-20-20 rule was 37.4%. The overall prevalence of positive for CVS symptoms was 76.1%. Independent risk factors for CVS symptoms were gender female, ocular disorders, and using digital devices at a shorter distance. Conclusion There was a high prevalence of CVS symptoms among university students in our region. Female students with an ocular disease were more likely to exhibit CVS symptoms than other university students, but using a digital device at a longer distance could alleviate the symptoms of CVS. A longitudinal study is needed to establish the effect of CVS symptoms among university students, especially during the post-pandemic era.

Digital Eye Strain among Peruvian Nursing Students: Prevalence and Associated Factors

There has been a high prevalence of digital eye strain (DES) among students who have received distance-learning lessons due to COVID-19. However, in low- and middle-income countries, there are few studies that have analyzed its associated factors. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of DES and its associated factors among nursing students during COVID-19 distance learning. This was a cross-sectional analytical study conducted between May and June 2021 in six Peruvian universities. The sample comprised 796 nursing students. DES was measured using the Computer Vision Syndrome Questionnaire (CVS-Q). A bivariate logistic regression analysis was performed. DES was found in 87.6% of nursing students. Sitting upright (OR, 0.47; 95% IC, 0.30-0.74), using electronic devices for more than four hours a day (OR, 1.73; 95% IC, 1.02-2.86), not following the 20-20-20 rule (OR, 2.60; 95% IC, 1.25-5.20), having the screen brightness very high (OR, 3.36; 95% IC, 1.23-11.8), and not wearing glasses (OR, 0.59; 95% IC, 0.37-0.93) are factors associated with DES. The prevalence of DES among nursing students is high. Improving the ergonomics of study environments, reducing the time of exposure to electronic devices, adjusting the screen brightness, and taking eye-care measures are key to controlling computer vision syndrome in virtual learning.

Prevalence of computer vision syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Although computer vision syndromes are becoming a major public health concern, less emphasis is given to them, particularly in developing countries. There are primary studies on different continents; however, there are inconsistent findings in prevalence among the primary studies. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of computer vision syndrome. In this study, the review was developed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Online electronic databases, including PubMed/Medline, CINAHL, and Google Scholar, were used to retrieve published and unpublished studies. The study was conducted from December 1 to April 9/2022. Study selection, quality assessment, and data extraction were performed independently by two authors. Quality assessment of the studies was performed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Meta-Analysis of Statistics Assessment and Review Instrument tool. Heterogeneity was assessed using the statistical test I². STATA 14 software was used for statistical analysis. A total of 7,35 studies were retrieved, and 45 studies were included in the final meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of computer vision syndrome was 66% (95% CI: 59, 74). Subgroup analysis based on country was highest in Pakistan (97%, 95% CI: 96, 98) and lowest in Japan (12%, 95% CI: 9, 15). Subgroup analysis based on country showed that studies in Saudi Arabia (I² = 99.41%, p value < 0.001), Ethiopia (I² = 72.6%, p value < 0.001), and India (I² = 98.04%, p value < 0.001) had significant heterogeneity. In the sensitivity analysis, no single study unduly influenced the overall effect estimate. Nearly two in three participants had computer vision syndrome. Thus, preventive practice strategic activities for computer vision syndrome are important interventions.

Computer Vision Syndrome in Undergraduate and Medical Students During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) in undergraduate and medical students since transitioning to online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Patients and Methods

This was a cross-sectional single center survey-based study using a validated CVS questionnaire (CVS-Q). The survey was distributed to 20,080 undergraduate students and 680 medical students at the University of Illinois at Chicago. The primary outcome measures were prevalence of CVS (based on CVS severity score of 6 or more), frequency of CVS and intensity of CVS symptoms.

Results

The survey was completed by 2300 undergraduate students (11.4% response rate) and 154 medical students (22.6% response rate). The prevalence of CVS was 77.1% in undergraduate students and 69.1% in medical students. CVS-Q severity scores were highest for headaches and eye dryness, with over half of students reporting worsening of symptoms since March 2020. Increased time spent on online learning (undergraduate: P <0.001, medical: P = 0.018), blue light glasses usage (undergraduate: P <0.001, medical: P = 0.0015), and increased number of device usage were associated with higher CVS severity scores (undergraduate: P <0.001, medical: P = 0.0032).

Conclusion

CVS among undergraduate and medical students has increased since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. More focus should be placed on the management of CVS for students in higher education. Physicians should be cognizant of the consequences of online learning and be proactive about providing advice regarding preventative measures.

Computer vision syndrome and its determinants: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective:

Computer vision syndromes are becoming a major public health concern. Inconsistent findings existed on computer vision syndrome. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of computer vision syndrome and identify its determinants.

Methods:

In this study, the review was developed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Online electronic databases, including PubMed/Medline, CINAHL, and Google Scholar, were used to retrieve studies from 1 December to 9 April 2022. Quality assessment of the studies was performed using the JBI-MAStARI. RevMan and STATA 14 software were used for statistical analysis.

Result:

A total of 725 studies were retrieved, and 49 studies were included. The pooled prevalence of computer vision syndrome was 66% (95%, Confidence interval: 59, 74). Being female (Odd Ratio = 1.74, 95% Confidence interval [1.2, 2.53]), improper body posturing while using electronic devices (Odd Ratio = 2.65, 95% Confidence interval [1.7, 4.12]), use of electronic devices out of work (Odd Ratio = 1.66, 95% CI [1.15, 2.39]), no habit of taking breaks (Odd Ratio = 2.24, 95% Confidence interval [1.13, 4.44]), long duration of visual display terminal use (Odd Ratio = 2.02, 95% Confidence interval [1.08, 3.77]), short distance screen (Odd Ratio = 4.24, 95% Confidence interval [2.33, 7.71]), and general ergonomic practice (Odd Ratio = 3.87, 95% Confidence interval [2.18, 6.86]) were associated with increased odds of computer vision syndrome. However, good knowledge (Odd Ratio = 4.04, 95% Confidence interval [2.75, 5.94]) of computer vision syndrome was associated with decreased odds of computer vision syndrome.

Conclusion:

Nearly two in three participants had computer vision syndrome. Being female, improper body posturing, use of electronics devices out of work, no habit of taking a break, long-hour duration of visual display terminal use, short-distance screen, and general ergonomic practice were associated with increased odds of computer vision syndrome.

Population perceived eye strain due to digital devices usage during COVID-19 pandemic

PURPOSE

To assess the magnitude severity and determinants of eyestrain and the use of digital devices in a Saudi population during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown.

METHODS

This web-based survey was conducted in September 2020 and enrolled only Saudi nationals 15 years or older. Data were collected on demographics, eye strain related symptoms, severity, and the use of optical aids during the COVID-19 lockdown. The frequency and severity of eye strain were calculated. A Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) score was graded as none/mild moderate and severe, based on the sum of 15-eye strain related signs and symptoms. Correlation analysis was performed for determinants of CVS.

RESULTS

The study sample was comprised of 2009 individuals with median age of 20 years. Among those who used digital devices for more than 6 h daily, the main reasons for use were work and social purposes among 68.4%, and 61% of respondents, respectively. The prevalence of knowledge on CVS and the '20-20 rule for using digital devices' was 9.4% and 6.9, respectively. The most common symptoms of eye strain from digital device usage were headache, burning, itching, tearing, and redness of eyes. Six hours of daily usage of digital devices was positively associated to the grade of eye strain severity during the COVID-19 lockdown (P < 0.05)).

CONCLUSION

The Saudi population experienced eye strain during COVID-19 lockdown due to excessive digital devices usage. Longer duration of digital device usage was associated to eye strain. Health care providers should educate the general population on measures to mitigate eye strain due to digital devices. Trial registration ID None applicable.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the prevalence of computer vision syndrome among medical students in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Computer Visual Syndrome in Medical Students From a Private University in Paraguay: A Survey Study

Purpose

To determine the prevalence and factors associated with computer vision syndrome in medical students at a private university in Paraguay.

Methods

A survey study was conducted in 2021 in a sample of 228 medical students from the Universidad del Pacífico, Paraguay. The dependent variable was CVS, measured with the Computer Visual Syndrome Questionnaire (CVS-Q). Its association with covariates (hours of daily use of notebook, smartphone, tablet and PC, taking breaks when using equipment, use of preventive visual measures, use of glasses, etc.) was examined.

Results

The mean age was 22.3 years and 71.5% were women. CVS was present in 82.5% of participants. Higher prevalence of CVS was associated with wearing a framed lens (PR = 1.11, 95% CI: 1.03–1.20). In contrast, taking a break when using electronic equipment at least every 20 min and every 1 h reduced 7% (PR = 0.93, 95% CI: 0.87–0.99) and 6% (PR = 0.94, 95% CI: 0.89–0.99) the prevalence of CVS, respectively.

Conclusion

Eight out of 10 students experienced CVS during the COVID-19 pandemic. The use of framed lenses increased the presence of CVS, while taking breaks when using electronic equipment at least every 20 min and every 1 h reduced CVS.

Magnitude and Determinants of Computer Vision Syndrome Among Radiologists in Saudi Arabia: A National Survey

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES

To assess the magnitude and determinants of computer vision syndrome (CVS) among radiologists in Saudi Arabia using a reliable and validated survey instrument.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This nationwide cross-sectional web-based survey took place in April 2021 and included all radiologists and radiology residents residing practicing in Saudi Arabia. We used the reliable and validated CVS questionnaire. Univariate and multivariate analyses were carried out using nonparametric methods. The CVS score was correlated with different demographic- and health-related variables. The Mann-Whitney U test and Kruskal-Wallis test were used to determine if there was a statistically significant difference between subgroups.

RESULTS

The survey was completed by 416 participants. The prevalence of CVS was 65.4% (95% CI: 60.8-70.0). The median CVS score was 7.5 (interquartile range: 4.0; 12.0). Mild CVS was observed in 188 participants (69.1%), moderate CVS was observed in 69 (25.4%), and severe CVS was observed in 15 (5.5%). The most common symptoms perceived by participants were headache (72.1%), dryness (70.7%), burning (63.7%), blurred vision (56.3%), and increased sensitivity to light (55.5%). Multinomial regression analysis suggested that female sex (p < 0.001), work as a general radiologist (p = 0.05), and the use of eyeglasses (p = 0.001) were significant predictors of CVS.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of CVS among radiologists in our study was high. Local and international societies need to establish and implement legislative and preventive measures to ensure the safety and ocular and visual health of radiologists.

Magnitude and determinants of computer vision syndrome among college students at a Saudi University

PURPOSE:

To review students’ perceived symptom-based computer vision syndrome (CVS) and its determinants and to suggest preventive measures.

METHODS:

This cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2021 at a university in Central Saudi Arabia. The presence and severity of symptoms related to CVS were investigated. The total CVS symptom score was the outcome variable. The CVS score was correlated to participants’ demographics, visual habits when using digital devices, and knowledge about CVS. Due to skewed distribution, a nonparametric method was used for analysis.

RESULTS:

Overall, 521 students were surveyed. The prevalence of CVS based on at least one symptom was 96% (95% confidence interval 94.3–97.7). The median score was 8.0 (interquartile range 4.0–12.0). Of the 24 possible CVS scores, 42 students (8%) had scores of 18 or more (severe CVS). Being female (Mann–Whitney [MW] P < 0.001), being older (Spearman P < 0.001), refractive error (MW P < 0.001), the presence of dry eye (MW P < 0.001), using devices other than a desktop computer (KruskalWallis) P = 0.03), and more than 6 h constantly working with a device (MW P = 0.001) were correlated with a higher CVS score. Older age, female, refractive error, and using digital devices for more than 6 h were the independent and significant predictors of CVS in college students.

CONCLUSION:

Most of the students suffered from mild-to-moderate CVS symptoms. Health promotion for prevention and periodic ophthalmic consultations are recommended. Identified predictors should be the focus when implementing strategies to combat CVS in the adolescent Saudi population.