Factors associated with Computer Vision Syndrome in students and teachers of a private university in Peru during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic

Abstract

Introduction: computer Vision Syndrome is also considered the ocular epidemic of the 21st century. It is essential to determine the number of individuals suffering from CVS and the associated factors. Objective: to identify the factors associated with Computer Vision Syndrome in medical students and faculty at Peruvian Private University during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in 2021. Methods: this was an observational, cross-sectional, retrospective, and analytical study. The participants included students and faculty members from the School of Human Medicine. The Computer Vision Syndrome Questionnaire (CVS-Q) from Google Forms was used. For bivariate analysis, the chi-squared test was used with a 95 % confidence level. Frequency and proportion calculations were used for qualitative variables, and measures of central tendency and dispersion were calculated for quantitative variables. Results: 56,0 % of faculty and students suffered from computer vision syndrome (CVS). In the bivariate analysis, it was found that the use of eyeglasses (p < 0,004), a computer/cell phone screen distance of <45cm (p < 0,031), and a family history of visual diseases (p < 0,010) were associated with CVS. Conclusions: There is a high prevalence of computer vision syndrome, with faculty members being the most affected. Factors associated with CVS were the use of eyeglasses, a computer/cell phone screen distance of <45cm, and a family history of visual diseases.