Computer Vision Syndrome in Medical Students - Knowledge, Attitude, Practice (KAP) Study

Abstract

BACKGROUND
 The use of computers and visual display devices has become an integral part of our lives. As a result, a large number of people around the world are suffering from various ocular symptoms, including dry eyes, ocular strain, eye irritation, and ocular redness. All of these ocular symptoms are commonly called computer vision syndrome. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence, community knowledge, and pathophysiology of computer vision syndrome, as well as the factors associated with and preventing CVS.
 METHODS
 A cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 medical students and the data was collected through a structured, web-based, and self-administered questionnaire, which was pre tested and pre-validated.
 RESULTS
 In this study, 38.7% had a pre-existing knowledge on CVS. 94.67% of the respondents reported having mild to moderate symptoms of dry eyes. It is found that people use screens mostly for social media and entertainment. Long hours spent on the small screen led to sleep disturbances in about 56% of the students. According to our survey, 54% of the students used spectacles and frequent change of spectacles was present. About 40% of the students used topical eye drops prescribed by ophthalmologist.
 CONCLUSIONS
 The increasing use of digital screen and prevalence of computer vision syndrome. When combined with increased screen time, dry eyes and good quality sleep can lead to serious health problems like learning difficulties and operative errors, which may pose a challenge in the modern era. Right education, attitude and practice regarding CVS are required to all the medical students due to their increased dependency on digital devices. Proper practice and preventive measures are necessary for a doctor /surgeon for health benefit of the patients and community.