Computer vision syndrome among Saudi population

Abstract

Introduction: In the recent era of technological evolution, electronic devices have become an essential part of our lives, not merely in professional work settings, but also in daily leisure activities. Although these devices have simplified our lives, they are associated with a wide variety of health complaints. Thus, the so-called computer vision syndrome (CVS) has become a growing public health problem and has gained significant attention as it plays an important role in the quality of life of each individual, which in turn has put an increased burden on the health care system. Eye symptoms are among the most reported, yet extraocular symptoms were frequently described as adding an extra load. Method: An electronic survey was distributed randomly through social media platforms among the general population in Saudi Arabia, between the period from July to December 2017, irrespective of their sociodemographic factors, aiming to determine the prevalence of CVS and to verify the most common associated risk factors. Results: In total, 690 participants were involved in our study, with a mean age of 33.8 years. Of these, 77.6% suffer from CVS, with eye-burning being the most common ocular symptoms (71%), as well as itching (67.5%), blurred vision (65%), tearing (62.3%), and other eye symptoms being reported. Neck/shoulder pain was found to be the most prevalent extra ocular symptom (85.2%); also back pain and headache are frequently expressed (78% and 70% respectively). A significant positive correlation was observed between CVS symptoms and time spent using the devices (P-value: 0.002). Conclusion: As technology advances, electronic devices have become a common tool that is used for different purposes on daily basis. We found in our study that the so-called computer vision syndrome is a growing public health problem. Thus, community education about the impact of such a lifestyle for proper handling of electronic devices must be addressed to avoid such health complaints.

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

“… 26 , 94 This might be because technological advances and electronic devices have become common tools used for different purposes on a daily basis, and CVS is a growing public health concern. 95 …”

Magnitude and Determinants of Computer Vision Syndrome among College Students at a Saudi University

“…noted a 76% prevalence of CVS; and in Riyadh, 82% of students had neck and shoulder pain, both CVS symptoms. [ 10 11 ] In India, 50% of school students had symptoms of dry eye disease (DED) in the period of intense e-learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. [ 13 ] One should be careful about comparing the CVS and DED of the Saudi population with other countries because climatic conditions vary and could influence the severity of dry eye.…”

“…Several studies have reviewed the extent of CVS in the adult population and professional groups at high risk. [ 8 9 10 11 12 ] However, few studies cover the adolescent population. The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in lockdown, and when educational institutions were closed and outdoor activities were minimized, exposure to digital devices increased for education, communication, and entertainment purposes.…”

COVID-19 inductor del síndrome visual informático y sus afectaciones a las personas

“…Por otra parte, Turkistani et al, (2021) realizaron un estudio a la población general de Arabia Saudita, en la que distribuyeron cuestionarios por redes sociales con el propósito de establecer la prevalencia del SVI y precisar los factores de riesgos más comunes vinculados con dicho síndrome. Por lo que participaron 690 personas en edad promedio de 33.8 años.…”