Computer-digital Vision Syndrome Among University Students of Lima City

Abstract

Background: Computer-digital vision syndrome (CVS) is a common occupational disease. Objective: This study aims to determine the frequency of CVS and its associated factors in students of a private university located in the north of Lima City. Methods: The study was an observational, descriptive, and cross-sectional one. The study variable was CVS, which was assessed using the Computer Vision Syndrome Questionnaire (CVS-Q). Results: The analysis was carried out on 709 participants with a mean age of 22.41 years (SD: 4.5; range: 16 to 60). The most frequently used devices were the smartphone and laptop, representing 96.8% (n=686) and 64.7% (n=459), respectively. Of the students exposed to the use of display devices, 58% (n= 413) had CVS. The CVS occurred more frequently in females (p= 0.003), in the 20 to 24-year-old age group (p= 0.022), and in students who were in the first and second academic year (p=0.071). CVS was also found more frequently in lens wearers (p<0.001), in students exposed to screens for 7 to 10 hours and 4 to 6 hours a day (p<0.001), and in students who used two and three electronic devices (p<0.001). CVS occurred mainly in students who used smartphones, and laptops (p<0.05). Conclusion: CVS is common among university students. The use of a variety of electronic devices, mainly smartphones and laptops, as well as the exposure time, plays an important role. Therefore, it is recommended to carry out prevention and promotion activities of vision care at the beginning of the academic period. © 2022 Lindo-Cano et al.