Abstract
Purpose :
This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of digital eye strain (DES) symptoms and the risk factors associated with DES symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic in Taiwan.
Methods :
An online self-administered questionnaire was utilized to collect data on DES symptoms during the COVID-19 lockdown period in Taiwan (from May 16 to July 26, 2021). The study also investigated the total usage duration of various digital devices (smartphones, TVs, desktop computers, laptops, tablets, and video games) and evaluated the level of DES symptoms both before and during the lockdown period. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 26 software.
Results :
A total of 1233 valid responses were collected in this study, with participants averaging 42.33 ± 14.23 years of age. Among the respondents, 811 (65.77%) were females, and 422 (34.23%) were males. The overall time spent on digital devices during the lockdown period in Taiwan was 8.29 ± 3.82 hours. During this period, 93.9% of participants reported experiencing eyestrain, with 45.9% noting more severe symptoms. The incidence of DES symptoms was significantly associated with various risk factors, including age (P < 0.001; OR: 1.012; 95% CI: 1.012-1.030), gender (P < 0.001; OR: 1.617; 95% CI: 1.272-2.055), and the duration of digital device usage (P = 0.017; OR: 1.057; 95% CI: 1.023-1.092). When comparing the presbyopic population (age ≥ 40 years old) with the non-presbyopic population (age < 40 years), a significantly higher prevalence of DES symptoms was observed. Female participants also exhibited a significantly higher prevalence of DES symptoms compared to male participants. Additionally, a higher prevalence of DES was found when daily hours spent on digital devices were ≥ 5 hours.
Conclusions :
The usage duration of digital devices increased, and DES symptoms were more prevalent and severe during the COVID-19 lockdown period in Taiwan. Among females, the presbyopic population, and prolonged users of digital devices, the prevalence of DES symptoms is significantly higher. To reduce the incidence of DES symptoms, it is advisable to promote awareness of appropriate usage habits for digital devices to the public.
This abstract was presented at the 2024 ARVO Annual Meeting, held in Seattle, WA, May 5-9, 2024.