Association between visual acuity, ocular pathology and refractive error with computer vision syndrome: A cross sectional university study in Kenya

Abstract

Background: Numerous factors have been shown to reduce symptomatic and non-symptomatic forms of computer vision syndrome. However, little is known about the magnitude of visual symptoms among computer users diagnosed with severe symptoms of computer vision syndrome. Therefore this study aimed at determining whether reduced visual acuity, anterior segment conditions, and refractive error are associated with computer vision syndrome. Material and methods: A cross-sectional university-based study was carried among university students (n = 783). Visual acuity was determined using the Snellen chart. The anterior segment conditions were determined through a comprehensive examination using a slit lamp. Computer vision syndrome symptoms were assessed through a subjective approach using a developed questionnaire. Retinoscopy was conducted to determine refractive status. Results: Results showed that participants with a refractive error above ± 0.50 diopters had a greater odds multivariate adjusted ratio 0.73 (95% CI: 0.63–0.90) for having symptoms of computer vision syndrome. Visual acuity was found to have a multivariate-adjusted odds ratio of 0.31 (95% CI: 0.24–0.47), and anterior segment conditions also had greater odds multivariate adjusted ratios 0.45 (95% CI: 0.39–0.78), indicating significance association with computer vision syndrome. Conclusion: Reduced visual acuity, presence of anterior segment conditions, and refractive error were associated with a greater likelihood of reporting computer vision syndrome.