The prevalence of computer vision syndrome among information technology students in a rural engineering college

Background: As computers become part of our everyday life, more and more people are experiencing a variety of ocular symptoms related to computer use. Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), also referred to as digital eye strain describes a group of eye and vision related problems that result from the prolonged computer, tablet, E-reader and cellphone use. CVS may have a significant impact not only on visual comfort but also on occupational productivity. Objective: To study the prevalence of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS)using the Computer Vision Questionnaire among Information Technology (IT) students studying in a rural area in South India. Methodology: The study covered 339students from a rural engineering college. Demographic data such as age, gender, socioeconomic status and medical history were collected and entered in the case study form. Clinical examination with a torch light was carried out in all subjects to exclude gross corneal abnormalities. Those screened who were found to be normal were handed over a questionnaire, based on the results on which they were grouped into those with CVS and those without CVS. The visual acuity and retinoscopic examination of all were also carried out. The data were collected and analyzed using chi-square test. Results: The prevalence of CVS was found to be 55.46%.79.3% of those who worked on the computer for more than 3 hours per day and 76.08% of those sitting at a stretch on computer for more than 2 hours developed computer vision syndrome. Only 38.3% of those who took periodic breaks had symptoms of CVS while 82.0% of those who did not take a break developed CVS. Conclusion: The prevalence of CVS among rural engineering students studying information technology was found to be 55.46%. This study revealed a positive association between total hours of work on computer per day, work at a stretch on computer, taking periodic breaks and computer vision syndrome.