Abstract
Objective This study aimed to determine the prevalence of computer vision syndrome (CVS) and associated risk factors of prolonged use of electronics.
Methods This was an online non-interventional cross-sectional study conducted over the period of COVID curfew in Jeddah city from April to June 2020, through a questionnaire. Participants were between 20 and 60 years of age and used electronic devices.
Results Totally, 1227 participants were recruited between 20 and 60 years of age. The majority of them were females (69.9%). Almost 1048 participants used smartphones or laptops. More than half (54.5%) of them used electronics for more than 4 h daily. A high symptom severity score was found in 44% of the respondents. Taking breaks during electronics use <30 minutes (P=0.018), viewing computers at a distance less than arm length (P4.001), and the use of screen protectors (P=0.014) were significant factors related to the symptom's severity score.
Conclusions CVS was prevalent among the participants who used electronics for more than 4 h daily. Taking breaks during electronics use, viewing computers at an appropriate distance, and the use of screen protectors were effective practices to relieve the eye symptoms severity score.